Enneagram workplace team building

The “culture” of a company can be make or break. While all organizations strive to create productive and efficient work environments, they often overlook a critical aspect of their company’s culture: the personality types and communication styles of their employees. The leadership often consciously or subconsciously expects everyone to act, think and feel like they do. This is where the Enneagram can give us a lens into understanding the different ways people think, act and feel in a workplace.

The hope is that by understanding the Enneagram types of employees, leadership and organizations can create a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture that fosters collaboration, creativity, and innovation.

Improved Communication and Collaboration Between Team Members

The Enneagram can help team members communicate more effectively by identifying their unique communication styles. For example, Enneagram Type 1s tend to be detail-oriented and meticulous, while Enneagram Type 7s prefer a more spontaneous and creative approach. Understanding these differences can help team members communicate more effectively and avoid misunderstandings. Checkout this blog to dive deeper in understanding how different Enneagram types work together in teams

Increased Self-Awareness and Understanding of Others’ Perspectives

The Enneagram can also increase self-awareness, helping individuals understand their own behavior and motivations better. This can lead to greater empathy and understanding of others’ perspectives, which is essential for effective collaboration and teamwork. For example, an Enneagram Type 5 may struggle to understand the emotional needs of an Enneagram Type 2, but by understanding their different personality types, they can work together more effectively.

More Effective Problem-Solving and Decision-Making

The Enneagram can help individuals and teams make better decisions by identifying their strengths and weaknesses. For example, an Enneagram Type 8 may be more decisive and action-oriented, while an Enneagram Type 4 may be more creative and innovative. By understanding these differences, teams can leverage each other’s strengths and work together more effectively.

Greater Empathy and Compassion for Others

The Enneagram can also help individuals develop greater empathy and compassion for others. By understanding their own personality type and the personality types of others, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of their colleagues’ experiences and perspectives. This can lead to a more supportive and inclusive workplace culture.

Increased Productivity and Efficiency

By leveraging the strengths and tendencies of each Enneagram type, teams can increase their productivity and efficiency. For example, an Enneagram Type 3 may excel at setting and achieving goals, while an Enneagram Type 9 may be better suited to maintaining harmony and balance within the team.

Stronger Team Cohesion and Morale

By understanding each team member’s Enneagram type, teams can create a more cohesive and supportive work environment. By leveraging each other’s strengths and understanding each other’s weaknesses, teams can work together more effectively, leading to higher morale and greater job satisfaction.

Ideal Work Environment for Each Enneagram Type

Understanding the ideal work environment for each Enneagram type can help organizations create a more supportive and inclusive workplace culture. For example, an Enneagram Type 1 may thrive in a structured and organized environment, while an Enneagram Type 7 may prefer a more flexible and creative work environment. By tailoring the work environment to each employee’s personality type, organizations can create a more engaged and motivated workforce.Here are some examples of the ideal work environment for each Enneagram type:

Type 1 - The Perfectionist

• Ideal Work Environment: A structured and organized environment that values attention to detail and accuracy. A clear set of rules and expectations can help the Type 1 thrive and feel secure.

Type 2 - The Helper

• Ideal Work Environment: A supportive and collaborative environment that values teamwork and relationships. The Type 2 thrives in a work environment that values their nurturing and empathetic qualities.

Type 3 - The Achiever

• Ideal Work Environment: A fast-paced and competitive environment that values goal-setting and achievement. The Type 3 thrives in an environment that values their ambition and results-driven attitude.

Type 4 - The Individualist

• Ideal Work Environment: A creative and innovative environment that values self-expression and originality. The Type 4 thrives in an environment that allows them to explore their unique perspective and creativity.

Type 5 - The Investigator

• Ideal Work Environment: A quiet and contemplative environment that values intellectual curiosity and expertise. The Type 5 thrives in an environment that allows them to explore and learn on their own terms.

Type 6 - The Loyalist

• Ideal Work Environment: A supportive and secure environment that values loyalty and dependability. The Type 6 thrives in a work environment that provides clear guidance and structure.

Type 7 - The Enthusiast

• Ideal Work Environment: A dynamic and exciting environment that values exploration and variety. The Type 7 thrives in a work environment that allows them to pursue their interests and passions.

Type 8 - The Challenger

• Ideal Work Environment: A challenging and competitive environment that values assertiveness and leadership. The Type 8 thrives in an environment that allows them to take charge and make decisions.

Type 9 - The Peacemaker

• Ideal Work Environment: A harmonious and peaceful environment that values balance and collaboration. The Type 9 thrives in an environment that promotes a sense of unity and cooperation.

In conclusion, the Enneagram is a powerful tool for team building and leadership development. By understanding each team member’s personality type, organizations can start to bring out everyone’s gifts. By leveraging each other’s strengths and understanding each other’s weaknesses, teams can work together more effectively, leading to higher morale, greater job satisfaction, and ultimately, increased productivity and efficiency.