When you order food, you may think it’s just about satisfying your hunger, but you’re actually revealing how you think, decide, and act. This phenomenon is what I call the “Restaurant Test.” Although it’s not scientific, it’s surprisingly accurate in illustrating how we make decisions at work and in life.
Some individuals meticulously scan the menu as if it’s a legal document, while others are immediately captivated by the first enticing item they see. Some ask numerous questions, while others stick to their usual choice.
But it’s not just about the food. It’s about the way you make choices. In business, the way you decide can significantly impact outcomes.
The restaurant test explained
In my work, I focus on Personality Intelligence, which is the ability to understand yourself and others through four distinct styles: Eagles, Parrots, Doves, and Owls. These styles affect how you express yourself, interact with others, and even how you order dinner.
Let’s explore how each style responds to the Restaurant Test and what those behaviors reveal about leadership.
Eagle: The Power Decider
Eagles enter the restaurant with a clear idea of what they want. If the restaurant doesn’t offer it, they’ll ask if the chef can make it anyway. They scan the menu, make their choice, and close it quickly. There is no debate or second-guessing. For them, time is money, and they don’t waste either on indecision.
In the business realm, Eagles are decisive and direct. They set goals and pursue them vigorously. However, their confidence can occasionally overshadow quieter voices. Eagles with Personality Intelligence recognize the importance of pausing, listening, and involving others in the decision-making process, especially when their buy-in is crucial.
Parrot: The Enthusiastic Explorer
Parrots are thrilled by the possibilities. “Ooh, they have Thai tacos! Wait, what’s jackfruit again?” They’re there for the experience, and if a waiter makes a recommendation, they’re likely to go for it. Parrots love having options and may switch their order mid-sentence.
In the workplace, Parrots generate a wealth of ideas and see opportunities everywhere. However, they can easily get distracted by shiny objects. Personality Intelligence helps Parrots channel their creativity while ensuring they follow through on their commitments.
Dove: The Tradition Keeper
Doves prefer to stick with what they know. If they’ve had a grilled chicken sandwich before and enjoyed it, they’re unlikely to take a risk on a new dish. They seek to keep things smooth and predictable, often allowing others to select the group appetizer and rarely sending food back. Even if it’s not perfect, they tend to settle for it.
In a work environment, Doves value stability and harmony. They are steady, loyal, and thoughtful. However, their inclination to maintain the status quo can hinder their willingness to embrace change or speak out when something isn’t working. Personality Intelligence helps Doves understand that protecting peace doesn’t mean remaining silent, and voicing a new idea is not rocking the boat; it’s helping steer it.
Owl: The Analytical Selector
Owls scrutinize every menu item. They want to know the ingredients of the sauce, how the dish is prepared, and whether they can customize their order. They might even review the menu ahead of time. Owls prefer to be well-prepared, which can take time.
Owls introduce structure and logic to the workplace. They are detail-oriented and methodical. However, they can fall into analysis paralysis. Personality Intelligence guides Owls in letting go of perfectionism when it hinders progress.
The Broader Business Lesson
Too often, we assume our approach is the only way. The Eagle may think, “Why are we still discussing this?” The Owl might believe, “We haven’t discussed it enough.” The Parrot says, “Let’s try it and see!” And the Dove wonders, “How will this affect the team?”
Failing to recognize these differences can lead to costly decision-making.
The Restaurant Test is a fun exercise, but it also shows that our decision-making style extends beyond dining; it influences how we lead, hire, delegate, sell, and adapt to change.
Some decisions must be made quickly, while others require careful analysis. Some should maintain consistency, while others foster innovation. Smart leaders appreciate the variety of decision-making styles and apply the appropriate method as needed. That’s Personality Intelligence in action.
How to build your personality intelligence
- Awareness: Understand your style. Be mindful of your patterns. The Restaurant Test is a good starting point.
- Acceptance: Acknowledge that other people process information differently. They’re not wrong, they just think differently than you.
- Adaptability: Adjust your approach according to the situation. Eagles should slow down, Doves should speak up, Parrots must focus, and Owls need to make the call.
- Authenticity: Activate the part of yourself that aligns with the way a decision needs to be reached.
Personality Intelligence is not about changing who you are. It’s about understanding yourself and using that awareness with intention.
Looking Forward
The next time you visit a restaurant, take a moment to observe how you order.
It might just be the secret ingredient to your success.
Merrick Rosenberg is co-founder of Take Flight Learning and Team Builders Plus and is author of the forthcoming book Personality Intelligence: Master the Art of Being You (Sept 2025). His unique personality test, which reimagines the traditional DISC model into four intuitive birds—Eagle, Parrot, Dove, and Owl, has been taken by over 15 million people worldwide and is now used by two-thirds of the Fortune 100.
