by Samuel F. Reynolds

Human resource departments spend millions of dollars on tests like the Meyers-Briggs to better understand and manage the personalities of their companies' employees. However, astrology might be a better tool. In fact, the Meyers-Briggs personality test, based on the research of psychologist Carl Jung, is, in turn, based on Jung's studies of astrology. Go figure. Although it's illegal and unwise to use astrology to hire or fire employees, it's an amazing guide to figuring out the key traits of workers and co-workers. Here's an astrological breakdown on the strengths (clock-in) and weaknesses (clock-out) of each zodiac sign.

Aries (March 21 - April 19)
This dynamic sign clocks in with a lot of zest, drive, ambition and pioneer power, meaning they're not afraid to be the first to do something. However, the clock-out traits that will knock them out are arrogance, and the feeling that they are a law unto themselves without having to answer to anyone. Rams also have trouble finishing what they've started.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
You can count on this sign to clock in and stay in for the long haul. Their determination and perseverance are the stuff of legend. Likewise, there is a sense of tasteful elegance they can bring to the workplace. What clocks them out, though, is that same determination. They can become incredibly stubborn and resistant to change.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
The Twins' ability to multi-task and communicate about almost anything not only makes them a party favorite, but a great employee. They can make work feel like easy listening music, almost breezy. The downside is that breeziness can make them appear daft and scattered at times. Likewise, they can get easily bored with a regular task, so you might feel like a babysitter who's always looking for exciting things for them to do.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
Clock this sign in as the den mother of the office, even if he's a guy. They can make people feel so good with their natural tendency to nurture and be supportive. They're also highly intuitive and intelligent. However, their moods and emotions can seem to clock in and out as often as the office door swings open and closed during the day.

Leo (July 23 - August 22)
Panache, daring and authority are all admirable traits that make for a dramatic clock in for this sign. Leos often know how to take charge of a project and have a strong desire to bring it to completion. They clock themselves out, though, by forgetting at times who the boss is. And here's a formula to remember: Leos expect about 3 times the praise, admiration and acknowledgement for whatever amount of time it took for them to accomplish something.

Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
There are very few signs who can clock in with the attention to detail, precision and high-quality skill set of this sign. They appear to be your dream employee, as they are so conscientious and meticulous. The clock out moment, however, is when Virgo spirals into a paralysis of analysis and will make a mountain out of a molehill. At that point, they can become defensive and very edgy.

About the Author
Samuel Reynolds has been a practicing astrologer for over 14 years. He is the co-creator of the Zodiac Lounge, a roving renewal center featuring body workers and psychics in New York City, and The Astrology Career Institute, a new center for training professional astrologers.