The 8 Types of Natural Intelligence – And How to Spot Them in Your Workforce
Not everyone shines in a classroom. But many people shine at work — when given the right space to use their natural intelligence.
Howard Gardner’s theory of Multiple Intelligences tells us that intelligence isn’t just about maths or language. In a workplace, that matters more than ever — especially if you’re trying to build skills from the ground up.
Here’s a breakdown of the 8 types of natural intelligence — and how to spot them in your team.
1. Linguistic Intelligence
“They just know how to explain things.”
Good at: writing, speaking, editing, explaining
Watch for: employees who simplify complex ideas, handle emails or customer responses well
Training tip: Let them create SOPs, scripts, or training guides
2. Logical-Mathematical Intelligence
“They’re the problem-solver.”
Good at: analysing, sequencing, numbers, troubleshooting
Watch for: people who spot errors, improve processes, or build clever workarounds
Training tip: Give them workflow or cost-efficiency challenges
3. Spatial Intelligence
“They can picture things others can’t.”
Good at: visualising, designing, arranging
Watch for: strong layout skills, good with diagrams or tools, able to ‘see’ final products
Training tip: Let them sketch, model, or create prototypes in training
4. Bodily-Kinaesthetic Intelligence
“They learn by doing.”
Good at: physical coordination, hands-on work, fixing or assembling things
Watch for: quick learners during demos, people who struggle with written-only instructions
Training tip: Prioritise demonstrate + do methods over theory
5. Musical Intelligence
“They’ve got rhythm — even in their speech.”
Good at: recognising patterns, remembering tunes or rhythms
Watch for: people who easily recall jingles, rhymes, or verbal patterns
Training tip: Use rhythmic cues or audio reminders for routines (even alarms!)
6. Interpersonal Intelligence
“They just know how to deal with people.”
Good at: empathy, conflict resolution, teamwork
Watch for: natural team leaders, people who de-escalate tension or support others quietly
Training tip: Use them in peer coaching, mentoring or onboarding
7. Intrapersonal Intelligence
“They’re deeply self-aware.”
Good at: reflecting, setting goals, working independently
Watch for: employees who grow from feedback and manage their own development
Training tip: Encourage goal journals, personal SWOTs, or solo learning time
8. Naturalist Intelligence
“They notice patterns and changes others miss.”
Good at: observing details, categorising, spotting trends
Watch for: those who keep things neat, manage stock intuitively, or see small shifts in the environment
Training tip: Involve them in system design, QC, or process flow optimisation
Why This Matters in Skills Development
If you rely only on formal assessments or classroom performance, you miss 70% of your talent.
Skills planning isn’t just about compliance — it’s about seeing the potential you already have and giving it room to grow.
Understanding natural intelligence helps you:
Assign the right training method
Develop people in roles where they’ll thrive
Build a more capable, confident team
Final Thought:
Not every star employee has a certificate.
And not every certificate-holder is an effective team member.
Natural intelligence helps you spot the difference — and build real skills where they matter most.
