What Does Your Favorite Color Say About You?

Explore what your favorite color says about your personality. University of the Cumberlands helps you discover your strengths to build upon them.

Color and Personality: What Job Recruiters Think of Your Favorite Color  

Recruiters and interviewers ask a lot of unexpected questions. Perhaps one of the most surprising: what's your favorite color? This query may initially seem pointless, but it holds more value than you might expect.

While color preferences don't define us outright, they can provide valuable insight into our personality — and what makes us tick. Marketing experts have long understood the value of color selection; several brands choose color schemes for logos and products exclusively based on the interplay of color psychology and public perception.

Color preference alone won't make or break an interview, but it's certainly worth exploring if you're determined to prepare for every possible curveball in the job search process. Whether you intend to pursue your associate or bachelor's in psychology or are simply looking to gain an edge in your interview, it's worth your while to learn the basics of color psychology.

What does it mean if your favorite color is red?

Red is a notoriously bold and vibrant color. A preference for this hue indicates a strong, confident and outgoing personality — or the desire to take on such traits. Those who select red may appear more alluring to others. Research indicates that both genders find people who wear red more attractive. In opponents, however, red can be viewed as dangerous.  Research, presented by Andrew Elliot, suggests that athletes struggle when playing against teams decked out in red.

What does it mean if your favorite color is white?

Those who prefer the color white make every effort to avoid clutter in their lives. Organized and logical, they excel in detail-oriented work that others might find mundane. Fans of the color white are meticulous in their appearance, unlike the rest of the world that cannot keep our whites white. This color's sleek and clean look is favored by many brands, including, most notably, Apple.

What does it mean if your favorite color is black?

It might be the preferred color of fiction's most dastardly villains, but in the real world, black reflects a certain practicality and realism that can be quite valuable. Additionally, people who like the color black are believed to crave control and independence. Teamwork may not be a strength, but lovers of black can be counted on to get the job done when left to themselves.

What does it mean if your favorite color is blue?

As the world's most popular color, blue suggests a certain sense of calm. Experts believe that those who cite blue as their favorite color are reliable and easy to get along with. These individuals are able to find serenity in seemingly impossible places. As such, recruiters may seek blue-preferring applicants for high-stress positions that could frazzle other candidates.

What does it mean if your favorite color is yellow?

Few people admit to preferring the color yellow. Experts cite it as the color of idealism. Unfortunately, those who choose yellow are often underestimated. Interviewers with a penchant for color psychology, however, may sit up and take notice when applicants share their love of all things yellow — this preference could indicate a hidden gem.

What does it mean if your favorite color is brown?

To some, brown may seem boring — but those who prefer this often forgotten color appreciate the stability it implies. People who love brown aren't particularly interested in flashy objects; they are, however, notoriously dependable.

What does it mean if your favorite color is green?

While green seems like a natural favorite for outdoorsy types, it actually indicates a desire for security. These individuals are social butterflies and want others to see them as successful, financially secure, and an important part of social circles. People who appreciate green are very concerned about how they're perceived by others.

What does it mean if your favorite color is orange?

According to color experts, people who like orange are nearly always bursting with personality. They love to be the center of attention and may therefore be well-suited to positions that involve the spotlight. From taking the stage to presenting at conferences, orange lovers attract others with their friendliness and enthusiasm. While many young people embrace the color orange, it is increasingly shunned with age.

What does it mean if your favorite color is purple?

Several of the world's greatest talents have expressed a clear preference for the color purple. Prince is easily the most recognizable example; he felt that purple reflected royalty. Experts, however, believe that a love of purple indicates creativity, quirkiness, and often, a fondness for mysticism.

What does it mean if your favorite color is pink?

If you cite pink as your favorite color, you are most often recognized as loving, generous and kind. These traits often draw others to you as you have an approachable personality. Individuals that gravitate towards pink are sensitive to others and have a desire to protect and take care of them.

Remember, a question from a recruiter is never just a question. Thorough preparation means delving into even the most unexpected topics — including color psychology.

Understanding your personality traits associated with your favorite color is one way to help you understand your strengths and weaknesses. If you are interested in furthering your career strengths, University of the Cumberlands offers exceptional on campus and online degree programs to fit your busy schedule.