Expression

The Expression Type places high value on the ability to express one’s faith/religion/spirituality to others as their primary manifestation of integrating faith/religion/spirituality and work. Depending on the individual and the work environment, the Expression Type arises from different motivations and manifests itself in different ways. There are three motivators: to persuade others to join their faith tradition, to respond to religious obligation, or to freely express themselves. Two primary manifestations of the Expression Type are the Verbal orientation and the Non-verbal orientation. These orientations, while distinct, can exist in the same person, as both result in an increased awareness of one’s faith by one’s co-workers and friends. Moreover, atheists and agnostics can also be Expression Types in regards to their worldview, although they manifest this without reference to God or a higher power.

The Expression Type with a Verbal orientation places emphasis on using verbal means to express faith/religion/spirituality. Verbal expression can take several forms, including prayer, informal discussion or sharing with co-workers, evangelization, or proselytization. For some, the goal is to engage in conversation or fulfill a religious obligation. Others seek to gain new adherents to their worldview. Finally, some have no particular agenda except to discuss their faith/religion/spirituality freely and express how it shapes their perspectives on work and life.

The Expression Type with a Non-verbal orientation places emphasis on using unspoken means to express faith/religion/spirituality. These unspoken means might include attire, symbols, or allowing actions to speak for themselves. Some Expression Types with this orientation find it important to display objects in their workspace that represent their beliefs, such as small figurines, scripture verses, religious books, or spiritual symbols. Some utilize non-verbal means out of religious duty, while others do this voluntarily.