The Psychology of Colour

One of the first lessons we are taught as children is to identify and distinguish between colours. Although perceptions of colour are somewhat subjective, several colours have adopted a universal meaning, transcending language. As we develop, colours begin to influence our perceptions and subconsciously affect our feelings towards products and environments.

So how is this relevant to the workplace?

People often associate the words corporate, professional and administrative with the colours, black, white and navy.

But why is this? Colour psychology suggests that these colours are often associated with feelings of stability, confidence and intelligence. When it comes to marketing and branding, companies will choose colours that provoke a desire for their product or service. These include colours promoting a sense of urgency (red), growth (green) and optimism (yellow and orange).

Here at TMS, colour is a part of our daily routine and what separates us from other psychometric tools. A question often asked at accreditation workshops is about the history behind our colourful Team Management Wheel. Dr Dick McCann recently spoke about the story behind the wheel’s colours after the initial plan for a black and white wheel.

Fresh Green

Colour psychology suggests the colour green is often associated with feelings of renewal, ambition and growth. The green section of the Team Management Wheel signifies the beginning stages of the development process, involving new ideas, learning and gathering information.

Bright Yellow

Yellow is the brightest colour of the visible spectrum, often associated with the sun. The colour signifies high energy and cheerfulness, regularly used in marketing to promote optimism and creativity. When the sun is out, we feel energised and ready to explore the world, which is why this colour spectrum was chosen to represent the promoting aspects of teamwork.

Warm Red

The colour red has established a universal meaning, representing action, energy and danger. This colour spectrum was chosen to represent the Organising section of the wheel where heat and action are generated within a team.

Deep Blue

Following the conclusion of an activity comes the ‘cool off’ period. Blue is often associated with feelings of control and clear thinking. This part of the wheel represents a period of reflection and evaluation within the team.

White Linking Light

When sunlight is passed through a prism the white light disperses into the colours of the spectrum. This physics theory was adapted to the TMS Wheel: as the roles in the Wheel come together in the white linking centre it signifies a balanced team.

We’d love to hear your feedback about how the Team Management Wheel colours have come up in your TMP workshops. Email us at info@tmsoz.com with your colour stories.