Which Personality Types Talk a Lot: Understanding the Dynamics of Verbal Expressiveness

Which personality types talk a lot?

If you've ever found yourself in a conversation where one person seems to dominate the airwaves, you might wonder which personality types are naturally more inclined to talk a lot. It's a common observation, and indeed, certain personality characteristics do tend to correlate with higher levels of verbal expressiveness. Generally speaking, individuals who identify with extroverted personality traits are more likely to be talkative. This is because extroverts tend to draw energy from social interactions, and talking is a primary way they engage with the world and process their thoughts. They often feel energized by group settings and find it easier to initiate conversations and share their ideas freely. Conversely, introverts, while perfectly capable of engaging in deep and meaningful conversations, often prefer to process information internally before speaking and may reserve their verbal energy for closer relationships or when they have something specific and well-considered to contribute. However, it's crucial to remember that "talking a lot" isn't solely about extroversion; other factors like enthusiasm, a desire to share knowledge, or even a touch of anxiety can also influence how much someone speaks. Let's dive deeper into the nuances of this fascinating aspect of human interaction.

From my own experiences, I've noticed this dynamic play out countless times. I have friends who are the life of every party, effortlessly weaving through conversations, sharing anecdotes, and keeping everyone entertained. Then there are others, equally brilliant and engaging, who might speak less frequently but whose contributions are always insightful and impactful. It's not about one being "better" than the other; it's about understanding these inherent tendencies. I remember one lively book club meeting where a wonderfully enthusiastic member, let's call her Sarah, practically narrated the entire discussion. She had so many thoughts and interpretations to share about the novel, and her passion was infectious. Around the table, others offered their perspectives more sparingly, thoughtfully considering Sarah's points before adding their own. This contrast isn't a judgment; it's simply a reflection of different communication styles, often rooted in personality. It’s this very difference that makes social interactions so rich and varied, isn't it?

When we talk about personality types, we're often referring to frameworks like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or broader psychological constructs. These frameworks offer valuable lenses through which to understand why some people are more talkative than others. The core concept here is energy orientation: are you energized by the outer world of people and activities (extroversion), or by your inner world of thoughts and reflections (introversion)? This fundamental difference plays a significant role in communication habits.

The Role of Extroversion in Verbal Expressiveness

Extroversion is perhaps the most direct predictor of who talks a lot. Extroverts are often described as being outgoing, sociable, and energetic. They tend to seek out stimulation from the external environment, and social interaction is a primary source of this stimulation. For them, talking is a way to:

Process Information: Many extroverts think aloud. The act of verbalizing their thoughts helps them clarify their ideas, organize their feelings, and arrive at conclusions. It’s like a live brainstorming session where the external world is their sounding board. Connect with Others: Talking is a fundamental way for extroverts to build and maintain relationships. They enjoy the back-and-forth of conversation, the shared laughter, and the feeling of being connected to those around them. Express Enthusiasm and Energy: When an extrovert is excited about something, they're likely to want to share that excitement with others. This can manifest as rapid-fire talking, enthusiastic storytelling, and a general eagerness to communicate. Feel Energized: Unlike introverts who can become drained by prolonged social interaction, extroverts often feel *more* energized by it. The flow of conversation provides them with a continuous stream of stimulation and engagement.

I recall a colleague, Mark, who exemplifies this. In team meetings, Mark would invariably be the first to jump in with ideas, offer solutions, and elaborate on complex points. He wasn't trying to hog the spotlight; he was genuinely engaged, his mind racing, and he needed to express those thoughts to feel fully involved. His energy was palpable, and often, his contributions would spark further discussion and innovation among the team. It wasn't about him being louder; it was about him being a readily available source of verbal energy and ideas.

Specific Extroverted Traits Contributing to Talkativeness

Within the broader umbrella of extroversion, several specific traits can contribute to someone talking a lot:

Sociability: A genuine enjoyment of being around people naturally leads to more opportunities for conversation. Assertiveness: Extroverts are often more comfortable stating their opinions and perspectives, leading to more verbal contributions. Gregariousness: A strong desire to be in groups and engage with multiple people at once can fuel constant chatter. Impulsivity (in communication): Sometimes, extroverts might speak before fully filtering their thoughts, leading to a more spontaneous and often more voluminous verbal output.

Think about parties or social gatherings. You'll often see the extroverts circulating, striking up conversations with new people, sharing jokes, and generally keeping the social energy high. They thrive in these environments, and talking is their primary tool for navigating and contributing to them. It’s their natural habitat, so to speak.

The Nuances: When Introverts Might Talk a Lot

While extroversion is a strong indicator, it's not the whole story. It’s possible for introverts to talk a lot, though their reasons and styles might differ significantly. An introvert might talk a lot under specific circumstances:

When Passionate about a Topic: An introvert who is deeply knowledgeable or passionate about a subject might speak extensively, especially if they feel comfortable and safe sharing their expertise. For them, it’s less about the social interaction itself and more about the urge to share information or engage with the substance of the topic. In One-on-One Conversations: Many introverts find it easier to open up and talk more in smaller, more intimate settings, especially with people they know and trust. The intensity of a one-on-one allows for deeper connection without the overwhelm of a larger group. When They Have Something Important to Say: Introverts often prefer to choose their words carefully and may wait until they have a well-formed thought or a crucial point to make. When they do speak, it might be for a significant contribution, which could lead to extended talking if their point requires elaboration. When Feeling Anxious or Unsure: Ironically, some introverts might talk excessively when they feel socially anxious or are trying to fill silence to avoid feeling awkward. This is a coping mechanism, an attempt to manage discomfort by keeping the verbal flow going, even if it doesn’t feel entirely natural. When Mentally Engaged and Stimulated: If an introvert is in an environment that highly stimulates their intellect or curiosity, they might become quite talkative as they process and express their insights.

I’ve observed this in myself. While generally preferring quieter settings, when a subject I’m deeply interested in comes up – say, the history of ancient civilizations or a particularly complex programming challenge – I can find myself talking for extended periods, delving into details and explanations. It's not an extroverted need for social energy; it’s an introverted outpouring of deeply held knowledge and fascination. My friends often joke, "When [my name] starts talking about [topic], you know you're in for a long, but interesting, haul!" This illustrates that the *quality* and *motivation* behind the talking can differ greatly.

Beyond Introversion vs. Extroversion: Other Contributing Factors

While the introversion-extroversion spectrum is a primary driver, several other personality facets and situational factors can influence how much someone talks:

Sensing vs. Intuition (MBTI): Sensing (S) types tend to focus on concrete facts and present realities. They might talk more when they are describing details, sharing practical information, or recounting events accurately. Intuitive (N) types tend to focus on abstract concepts, patterns, and future possibilities. They might talk more when exploring theories, brainstorming ideas, or connecting disparate concepts. Their discussions can often be more expansive and less anchored to immediate, tangible details. Thinking vs. Feeling (MBTI): Thinking (T) types might talk more when analyzing situations, presenting logical arguments, or debating a point objectively. Their talkativeness can be driven by a desire to dissect and understand. Feeling (F) types might talk more when expressing emotions, discussing personal values, or seeking harmony and connection in relationships. Their talkativeness can be driven by a need to share their inner world and connect emotionally. Judging vs. Perceiving (MBTI): Judging (J) types tend to prefer structure and closure. They might talk more when organizing thoughts, making decisions, or explaining plans. Perceiving (P) types tend to be more flexible and open-ended. They might talk more when exploring options, adapting to new information, or engaging in spontaneous thought processes. Their communication style can be more fluid and less linear. Enthusiasm and Passion: As mentioned, genuine excitement about a topic can make anyone more verbose, regardless of their core personality type. Confidence: People who are confident in their ideas and their ability to communicate are more likely to speak up. Need for Attention or Validation: In some cases, excessive talking can stem from a desire to be noticed, heard, or validated by others. This isn't necessarily tied to a specific personality type but can be a learned behavior or a coping mechanism. Anxiety: As noted with introverts, anxiety can sometimes lead to excessive talking as a way to fill uncomfortable silences or deflect from perceived social awkwardness. Cultural Background: Communication norms vary significantly across cultures. What might be considered "talking a lot" in one culture could be perfectly normal in another. Situational Context: The setting, the audience, and the purpose of the communication all play a role. Someone might be quiet in a formal meeting but very talkative with close friends.

Consider the MBTI types often associated with high verbal output. For instance, the ENFP (Extroverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving) and ENFJ (Extroverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Judging) types are frequently described as highly charismatic and talkative. They are energized by people, enjoy exploring ideas, and are often motivated by a desire to connect and inspire. On the other hand, an ISTP (Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Perceiving) might be quite reserved, speaking only when they have a practical problem to solve or a hands-on task to discuss.

I’ve seen how these combinations play out. A dynamic ENFP colleague might lead brainstorming sessions with an energetic cascade of ideas, while a more reserved ISTP colleague might quietly observe, only interjecting with a precise, practical solution when it becomes clear one is needed. Both are valuable, but their communication styles are worlds apart.

Understanding Specific Personality Types and Their Tendencies

Let's explore some commonly recognized personality types and their general inclinations towards talking. This is not to say every individual of a certain type will behave identically, but rather to identify common patterns and tendencies.

The "Talkative Titans": Extroverted Intuitive Types (ENNx)

Types that combine Extroversion (E) with Intuition (N) often exhibit high levels of verbal expressiveness. These individuals are energized by interacting with others and are drawn to exploring possibilities, ideas, and the "big picture."

ENFP (Campaigner): Often described as enthusiastic, creative, and passionate communicators. They love exploring ideas, brainstorming, and connecting with people on an emotional level. Their conversations can be dynamic, sometimes jumping from topic to topic as new thoughts emerge. They are driven by possibilities and use talk to explore them. ENFJ (Protagonist): Natural leaders and inspirers, ENFJs are highly attuned to people's emotions and motivations. They use communication to connect, motivate, and guide others. They are often warm, expressive, and enjoy fostering group cohesion through dialogue. They can be quite talkative when championing a cause or supporting someone. ENTP (Debater): These individuals are intellectually curious and enjoy exploring multiple perspectives. They often engage in lively debates, using their quick wit and verbal agility to challenge ideas and generate new ones. Their talkativeness stems from a desire to explore concepts and test their own thinking against others. ENTJ (Commander): While often seen as strategic and decisive, ENTJs also possess a strong extroverted drive. They can be quite talkative when articulating visions, strategizing, leading discussions, and asserting their well-thought-out plans. Their talk is often purposeful and aimed at achieving goals. My Take: I've worked with several ENFPs who could literally talk for hours about a new project or a fascinating concept. Their energy was infectious, and while it could sometimes feel overwhelming, their sheer volume of ideas and enthusiasm was undeniably a catalyst for creativity. They’d often bounce from one tangential thought to another, but somehow, it all circled back to their core enthusiasm. It’s like a verbal fireworks display! The "Social Butterflies": Extroverted Sensor Types (ESxx)

These types are also energized by the external world but tend to focus more on concrete realities, practical matters, and observable facts. They can be very talkative, especially in social settings.

ESFP (Entertainer): Spontaneous, energetic, and fun-loving, ESFPs thrive on social interaction and sensory experiences. They love to be the life of the party, sharing stories, jokes, and experiences. Their talkativeness is often driven by a desire to engage, entertain, and enjoy the present moment. ESFJ (Consul): These individuals are warm, social, and eager to please. They are attuned to the social atmosphere and often use conversation to build rapport, offer support, and ensure everyone feels included. Their talkativeness stems from a genuine desire for connection and harmony. ESTP (Entrepreneur): Action-oriented and pragmatic, ESTPs are often charismatic and enjoy being in the thick of things. They can be very talkative when engaging in activities, solving immediate problems, or sharing their direct experiences. Their communication is often lively and to-the-point. ESTJ (Executive): Practical and organized, ESTJs often take charge in social situations. They can be quite talkative when directing activities, sharing information, or setting clear expectations. Their communication is typically straightforward and goal-oriented. My Take: I’ve seen ESFJs who are incredible at making everyone feel heard and valued in group settings. They’ll actively prompt quieter members, share personal anecdotes to build bridges, and generally keep the conversation flowing with warmth and inclusivity. Their talkativeness is often a tool for social lubrication and fostering positive group dynamics. The "Thoughtful Contributors": Introverted Types (INxx and ISxx)

Introverts, by definition, gain energy from their inner world. While they may not talk as voluminously as extroverts in large groups, they can be quite talkative in specific contexts or when deeply engaged.

INFP (Mediator): While typically quiet in large groups, INFPs can become very talkative when discussing their values, passions, or creative ideas with trusted individuals. They often have rich inner worlds and may share them extensively when feeling safe and understood. INFJ (Advocate): INFJs are often deeply thoughtful and may speak less frequently but with significant impact. However, when discussing complex human dynamics, their ideals, or issues they care about, they can be very eloquent and verbose, sharing profound insights. INTP (Logician): These individuals are driven by a desire for knowledge and understanding. While they might not engage in small talk, an INTP can talk extensively about a subject that fascinates them, dissecting it logically and exploring its theoretical implications. Their talkativeness is often fueled by intellectual curiosity. INTJ (Architect): INTJs are strategic thinkers who value efficiency and accuracy. They might not be the most talkative in social settings, but when discussing their plans, theories, or areas of expertise, they can be quite articulate and detailed, often with a focus on logical progression. ISFP (Adventurer): ISFPs are often artistic and value their independence. While generally reserved, they can express themselves passionately through their art or when discussing personal experiences and aesthetic preferences with those they are close to. ISFJ (Defender): Loyal and supportive, ISFJs are often quiet observers. However, they can be talkative when sharing practical advice, recounting personal experiences, or when expressing care and concern for others. Their talkativeness is usually grounded in tangible realities and relationships. ISTP (Virtuoso): ISTPs are practical problem-solvers who prefer action over words. They tend to be quiet unless discussing a hands-on task, a mechanical issue, or a direct experience. When they do speak, it's often concise and to the point, but sometimes they might elaborate on a technical process they know well. ISTJ (Logistician): ISTJs are responsible and detail-oriented. They might not be naturally talkative in social settings, but they can be quite verbose when explaining procedures, sharing factual information, or discussing their duties and responsibilities in detail. My Take: I’ve encountered INTPs who, when diving into a complex scientific theory or a philosophical debate, could lecture for hours. Their eyes would light up, and they’d meticulously lay out their arguments, using precise language. It wasn't about social connection; it was about the sheer joy of exploring and articulating intricate ideas.

How to Identify Talkative Personality Types

While personality typing can offer clues, observation is key. Here are some signs and behaviors that might indicate someone is naturally more inclined to talk a lot:

Initiates Conversation Frequently: They are often the first to speak when meeting new people or entering a group. Dominates Group Discussions: They tend to speak more often and for longer durations than others in group settings. Enjoys Small Talk: They are comfortable with and seem to genuinely enjoy casual, light conversation. Expressive and Animated: Their body language and tone of voice often convey enthusiasm and energy when they speak. Shares Personal Anecdotes Readily: They are comfortable sharing personal stories, experiences, and opinions. Asks Many Questions: While this can be a sign of curiosity, it can also be a way to keep a conversation flowing and steer it towards topics they want to discuss. Thinks Aloud: They often verbalize their thought process, using conversation as a tool for self-discovery. Fills Silence: They may feel uncomfortable with silence and tend to fill it with talking.

It’s important to note that these are general observations. Someone might exhibit these traits for reasons other than their core personality type, such as cultural background, learned behavior, or a specific role they are playing in a given situation (e.g., a salesperson, a teacher). However, when these behaviors are consistent across various situations, they can point towards certain personality inclinations.

The Benefits and Challenges of Being a Talkative Person

Being someone who talks a lot comes with its own set of advantages and potential drawbacks:

Benefits: Strong Social Connections: Talkative individuals often build rapport easily and can foster strong relationships due to frequent interaction. Idea Generation and Problem-Solving: Their willingness to share thoughts can spark creativity, lead to innovative solutions, and help groups brainstorm effectively. Expressing Enthusiasm and Positivity: Their verbal energy can uplift others and create a positive atmosphere. Networking and Influence: Being comfortable and frequent in communication can be advantageous in networking and influencing others. Clarity of Thought: For some, talking is a way to organize their thoughts, leading to greater personal clarity. Challenges: Perceived as Dominating: They might unintentionally overshadow quieter individuals or monopolize conversations. Risk of Oversharing: Without careful filtering, they might reveal too much personal information or speak before thinking through the consequences. Can Be Draining for Others: Constantly high verbal output can be exhausting for those who are less talkative or prefer more reflective communication. Potential for Misunderstandings: Speaking quickly or without fully considering the audience can sometimes lead to misinterpretations or unintended offense. Difficulty with Deep Listening: In their eagerness to speak, talkative individuals might sometimes struggle to listen actively and fully to what others are saying.

I’ve had to consciously work on my listening skills. When I get excited about a topic, my natural inclination is to jump in with my own thoughts and experiences. It’s a constant practice to pause, truly absorb what the other person is saying, and then respond thoughtfully, rather than just waiting for my turn to speak. This is particularly important for extroverts who might otherwise dominate a conversation.

Tips for More Effective Communication, Regardless of Type

Whether you tend to talk a lot or prefer to listen, mastering communication is about balance and awareness. Here are some tips:

For Naturally Talkative Individuals: Practice Active Listening: Make a conscious effort to focus on the speaker, ask clarifying questions, and summarize what you’ve heard to ensure understanding. Put away distractions. Pause Before Speaking: Take a breath and a moment to consider your contribution. Is it relevant? Is it adding value? Share the Floor: Be mindful of others’ desire to speak. Make eye contact and invite participation from quieter individuals. Filter Your Thoughts: Not every thought needs to be verbalized. Practice a degree of self-censorship for the sake of clarity and appropriateness. Vary Your Pace and Tone: A consistent, rapid stream of words can be overwhelming. Learn to vary your speech for emphasis and to allow listeners to process information. For Less Talkative Individuals: Prepare Talking Points: If you know you'll be in a situation where contributions are expected, think about what you want to say beforehand. Use Non-Verbal Cues: Nodding, making eye contact, and leaning in can signal engagement and encourage the speaker to continue, allowing you to gather your thoughts. Ask Open-Ended Questions: This can prompt longer responses from others and give you more time to formulate your own thoughts. Find Your Moments: Don't be afraid to interject when you have a well-considered point. Your contributions, though perhaps less frequent, can be highly valued. Embrace Shorter Contributions: A concise, insightful comment can be more impactful than a lengthy monologue.

Ultimately, effective communication is a two-way street. It’s about understanding both your own tendencies and those of the people you're interacting with, and adapting accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Personality Types and Talking

How do I know if I'm an extrovert or an introvert?

Determining whether you lean more towards extroversion or introversion involves reflecting on where you get your energy and how you recharge. Extroverts tend to feel energized by external stimulation, social interaction, and activity. They often feel bored or drained when they spend too much time alone and thrive in bustling environments. After a social event, an extrovert might feel invigorated and ready for more. Conversely, introverts gain energy from their inner world of thoughts, feelings, and reflections. Prolonged social interaction can be draining for them, and they often need solitude to recharge. After a party, an introvert might feel depleted and crave quiet time to process their experiences and recover their energy. It's not about being shy versus outgoing, but about how you replenish your mental and emotional reserves.

Consider your preferences in different scenarios. Do you look forward to parties and gatherings, or do you find them a bit taxing? Do you prefer working alone on projects, or do you enjoy collaborative brainstorming? Do you find it easier to make small talk with strangers, or do you prefer deeper conversations with a few close friends? Answering these questions can provide valuable insights. Many online quizzes, including those based on the MBTI framework, can help you explore your preferences, but the most accurate understanding comes from honest self-reflection about what truly energizes and exhausts you.

Why do some people talk so much in meetings?

People talk a lot in meetings for a variety of reasons, often tied to their personality type and their role within the group. Extroverts, for instance, may be more inclined to share their thoughts readily, viewing meetings as opportunities for engagement and processing information aloud. They might feel energized by the collaborative atmosphere and want to contribute their ideas to the group's progress. Furthermore, individuals who are passionate about the meeting's topic, feel a sense of responsibility for its outcome, or are in leadership positions might feel compelled to speak more frequently to provide direction, clarification, or comprehensive explanations.

Sometimes, excessive talking can also stem from a need to ensure their perspective is heard, to demonstrate expertise, or even due to anxiety about perceived silence or a desire to control the narrative. Certain personality types, like those who are highly intuitive (N) or thinking (T), might engage more in meetings when they are discussing abstract ideas, problem-solving, or presenting logical arguments. Ultimately, the reasons can be a complex interplay of personality traits, individual motivation, situational dynamics, and the specific goals of the meeting.

Is it possible to be both an introvert and a talkative person?

Absolutely, it's not only possible but quite common to be an introvert and still be a talkative person, though the context and motivation behind the talking differ. Introverts tend to talk a lot when they are in familiar, comfortable environments, discussing topics they are passionate about, or engaging in deep one-on-one conversations. The key distinction lies in their energy source. While an extrovert might talk a lot to gain energy from social interaction, an introvert might talk a lot when sharing deeply held knowledge or exploring complex ideas that fascinate them, even if it expends energy. They might be quiet in large, superficial social gatherings but can become very eloquent and verbose when discussing subjects they know well or feel strongly about with trusted individuals. Their talkativeness is often characterized by thoughtful, deliberate speech rather than spontaneous, high-volume chatter.

It’s also important to recognize that introversion is a spectrum. Some introverts are more comfortable with verbal expression than others. Furthermore, introverts might also talk more if they feel a strong need to advocate for a cause, share crucial information, or connect with someone on a deeper emotional level. In these instances, the drive to communicate outweighs the typical energy drain associated with social interaction. So, while the outward manifestation of talkativeness might seem similar to an extrovert's, the underlying reasons and the way the energy is managed can be quite different.

How can I encourage quieter team members to speak up in meetings?

Creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable contributing is crucial for effective teamwork. To encourage quieter team members to speak up, start by fostering a culture of psychological safety, where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities and diverse opinions are valued. Before meetings, consider sending out an agenda with specific discussion points and perhaps inviting individuals to share their thoughts on particular items in advance. This gives them time to prepare and formulate their ideas without the pressure of spontaneous contribution.

During the meeting, actively solicit input from quieter members. You can do this by directly asking them for their thoughts on a specific topic, using phrases like, "Sarah, you have a lot of experience in this area, what are your thoughts?" or "Does anyone have a different perspective on this?" Another effective strategy is to break down larger discussions into smaller groups, where it might be less intimidating for individuals to share. Additionally, practice active listening yourself. When someone does speak, listen attentively, acknowledge their contribution, and avoid interrupting. This models the desired behavior and shows that every voice is respected. Finally, be mindful of conversational turn-taking; gently steer the conversation if one or two people are dominating the discussion, making space for others to interject.

What’s the difference between someone who talks a lot because they are extroverted versus someone who talks a lot because they are enthusiastic about a topic?

The core difference lies in the primary driver and the energy exchange. An extrovert talks a lot primarily because social interaction and external stimulation are their primary source of energy. Talking helps them feel engaged, connected, and energized. The conversation itself is often rewarding, regardless of the specific topic. They might be comfortable engaging in small talk, networking, or discussing a wide range of subjects, as the act of communication is what fuels them.

On the other hand, someone who talks a lot due to enthusiasm about a specific topic is driven by their passion for that subject matter. While they might be introverted or extroverted, their talkativeness is concentrated when the topic aligns with their deep interests, expertise, or values. For an introvert, this can be an exception to their usual communication style; they might expend significant energy talking about a topic they love because the internal drive to share that knowledge or passion overrides their need for solitude. For an extrovert, enthusiasm amplifies their natural tendency to talk. The key indicator is whether the talkativeness is broad-based and related to social energy (extroversion) or topic-specific and driven by passion and interest.

Think of it this way: an extrovert might chat animatedly with almost anyone about anything for an extended period, just for the sake of connection. Someone enthusiastic about a topic, however, might be relatively quiet until that specific subject arises, at which point they become a fountain of information and opinions. Their talkativeness is a focused outpouring of knowledge and excitement.

In essence, extroversion provides the *capacity* and *desire* for extensive social interaction, while topic-specific enthusiasm provides a powerful *catalyst* for verbal expression. One is about how you gain energy; the other is about what captures your deep interest and motivates you to share.

Conclusion

Understanding which personality types talk a lot is a fascinating journey into the diverse landscape of human communication. While extroversion is a strong predictor, it's by no means the sole determinant. Individuals across the personality spectrum can be talkative, driven by various motivations ranging from social energy and intellectual curiosity to passion and a desire to connect. By recognizing the subtle nuances of different personality traits and situational factors, we can foster more effective and empathetic communication, appreciating the unique verbal contributions each person brings to the table.