The Commerce scale measures one’s interests regarding business and money. Those that score higher will tend to enjoy working on budget issues and will likely show interest in moneymaking opportunities. It is important to note that in developed countries, such as the U.S., most people are interested in making money, however, those scoring lower on Commerce likely value money only to the point where it is seen as a means to an end. When we encounter moderate or low scores, we can look to the item themes to gain a better understanding of how the value operates for the individual. Below is more detail around the specific item themes as they relate to the Commerce scale.

Lifestyles

Individuals scoring high on Lifestyles likely organise their lives around financial and business matters. These people may spend their time reading business magazines, newspapers, and blogs. Similarly, they may spend their free time looking at their budget and assessing their financial future. On the other hand, those scoring lower may not be as focused on business and finances. They may not spend time looking at financial indicators and planning budgets.

Beliefs

Those scoring high on Beliefs likely have a worldview that assumes others are motivated by money, and that people should spend more time considering their financial futures. These individuals may also believe that governments should be doing more to support businesses and the free market economy. Those scoring lower, however, may not share the same worldview. They may assume there is more to motivating people than money. They may also be more skeptical of the free enterprise system and may wish for more government regulation in the economy.

Occupational Preferences

When people score high on Occupational Preferences, we can assume they would enjoy working in jobs that allow them opportunities to work with money, budgets, and finances. They may also be more interested in jobs with startup companies or those that offer the potential for high payouts. Similarly, these individuals might value the opportunity to start their own businesses, or invest in venture capital. On the other hand, lower scorers may not be as motivated to start their own businesses. In addition, they may prefer jobs that don’t require working with finances or monitoring budgets.

Aversions

People scoring higher on Aversions may tend to become annoyed in situations or environments that downplay the importance of money and finances. For instance, they may be opposed to what they see as business-harming taxes. These people may also become frustrated with people that live beyond their means. They may also be on the lookout for bad business deals, and may be critical of frivolous spending projects. Those scoring lower, however, are likely more comfortable with people or situations that do not have finances or money as their central focus.

Preferred Associates

Higher scorers on Preferred Associates will tend to surround themselves with people that enjoy finances and business. These folks likely enjoy being around (or desire to be around) others that are financially successful. On the other hand, lower scorers probably are more comfortable being around people that don’t spend their time talking about business and moneymaking opportunities.