Although there’s no such thing as a perfect work environment, learning to work with your coworkers’ strengths and weaknesses, rather than against them, can create a more positive atmosphere and boost morale. What if there were an online test that could help you do this?
The Enneagram is a personality assessment that classifies individuals into nine types. Each has unique characteristics, yet all are interconnected, meaning one person may show traits of another type depending on mood, stress level or other factors. Using the Enneagram can help you better understand yourself and others, strengthening workplace relationships.
The nine Enneagram types:
- Perfectionist: likes things done right; has a strong moral compass
- Helper: enjoys being needed and assisting others
- Achiever: values respect and recognition
- Romantic: seeks meaning and individuality
- Observer: prefers to understand before acting
- Loyalist: wants to provide stability and support
- Enthusiast: seeks excitement and fulfillment
- Challenger: passionate about fairness and problem-solving
- Mediator: values harmony and peace
Defining yourself by a number may feel limiting, but the Enneagram doesn’t box you in, it helps you understand why you think, react, solve problems and communicate the way you do. It highlights both your strengths and the areas you can improve.
In the workplace, this insight helps teams function more effectively by revealing what motivates each person. For example, I’m a Type Four, which means I can be overly critical of myself. Positive feedback and recognition go a long way toward keeping me engaged and confident. Knowing your coworkers’ Enneagram types can help you tailor communication and manage conflict more effectively.
Other ways the Enneagram can strengthen your workplace:
- Builds empathy by helping you recognize coworkers’ needs
- Encourages self-awareness to improve productivity
- Suggests ways to relax based on your personality type
- Reveals your boss’s leadership style
If you’re a manager, having your team take the Enneagram can benefit everyone. Even if you’re not in a leadership role, asking coworkers if they know their type can spark great conversations. You can find a version of the Enneagram test online; consider sharing it with your team. Your workplace (and your sanity) might thank you.