Making a Great First Impression: The Enneagram Playbook

Type 1 Approach

Walk in prepared, on time, and well-organized. A firm handshake, good posture, and a clean, professional appearance signals that you take the meeting seriously. Demonstrate thoughtfulness and attentiveness from the start.

Conversation Starters That Actually Work for Type 1s

• "I noticed how you [specific detail about their orderly appearance or behavior]. Do you always have such great attention to detail?"
• "This place seems a bit chaotic. How would you organize it if you were in charge?"
• "Between perfect but late or good enough but on time—which do you instinctively prefer?"

How Type 1s See the World (Your Insider Intel)

Type 1s scan for improvement opportunities and evaluate against internal standards of right and wrong. They respect people who show commitment to quality and ethical considerations. Think of them as quality control for life.

Type 2 Approach

Greet them warmly with authentic enthusiasm. Make good eye contact, smile, and show interest in them as a person before diving into business. Small thoughtful gestures (like remembering their coffee preference) make a strong impression.

Questions That Make Type 2s Light Up

• "You seem like someone people trust with their secrets. What's the most interesting thing you've helped someone with recently?"
• "I bet you're the person friends call at 2am when they need someone. Am I right?"
• "If you could instantly solve one problem for the people in your life, what would it be?"

The Type 2 Worldview (Relationship Radar Always On)

Type 2s see the world through relationships and needs. They're naturally attuned to how they can be helpful and valuable to others. They notice when others recognize their contributions and respect people who show genuine care.

Type 3 Approach

Be efficient, confident, and goal-oriented from the start. Arrive prepared with a clear agenda. Dress appropriately for the context, showing you understand professional expectations and respect their time.

Power Questions for High-Achiever Types

• "You strike me as someone who's accomplished something impressive that most people don't know about. What's your hidden win?"
• "This might sound strange, but you have the energy of someone who's excellent at what they do. What's your superpower?"
• "If your friends were bragging about you behind your back, what would they say you're amazing at?"

Type 3 Success Framework (Results-Driven Reality)

Type 3s see the world through achievements and efficiency. They value productivity, results, and creating a successful image. They respect competent, focused people who recognize their accomplishments.

Type 4 Approach

Show authenticity rather than generic pleasantries. Notice something distinctive about them or the environment and comment thoughtfully. Your genuine emotional presence matters more than polished small talk.

Conversation Openers That Resonate with Type 4s

• "There's something distinctive about your style that I can't quite place. What influences your aesthetic choices?"
• "Most people here seem to be having the same conversation, but I bet you see this whole scene differently. What are you really thinking?"
• "You strike me as someone who feels things deeply. What's something that moved you recently that most people missed?"

Understanding Type 4 Perspective (Depth-Seeking Worldview)

Type 4s see the world through personal meaning and identity. They're attuned to emotional depth, authenticity, and what makes experiences unique. They respect people who see and value their distinctive qualities.

Type 5 Approach

Begin with intellectual respect—don't crowd their physical or mental space. Start with a clear, concise introduction of your meeting purpose. Allow them time to observe and process before expecting full engagement.

Questions That Engage Type 5 Curiosity

• "You seem like someone who notices things others miss. What's something interesting you've observed today that no one else mentioned?"
• "I'm guessing you know a lot about something most people know nothing about. What's your niche expertise?"
• "Here's an odd question: if you could download any 3 expertise areas directly into your brain, what would you choose and why?"

Type 5 Operating System (Knowledge-Driven Framework)

Type 5s see the world through knowledge and mastery. They value competence, thoughtful analysis, and having space to process information deeply. They respect people who offer intellectual substance and respect boundaries.

Type 6 Approach

Be straightforward, reliable, and consistent from the first interaction. Clearly explain who you are, why you're meeting, and what you hope to accomplish. Address potential concerns proactively rather than glossing over them.

Security-Building Questions for Type 6s

• "You strike me as someone who can tell when something's off. What's your gut telling you about this place right now?"
• "Here's a loyalty test: If your best friend needed help moving at 7am Saturday, would you be there no questions asked, or need details first?"
• "What's the most reliable thing about you that your friends count on? I can usually spot dependable people."

Type 6 Security Scanner (Risk-Assessment Mindset)

Type 6s see the world through security and potential problems. They're naturally scanning for risks and inconsistencies to ensure safety and stability. They respect transparent, reliable people who address concerns directly.

Type 7 Approach

Match their energy and enthusiasm with a positive, upbeat greeting. Show curiosity and openness to adventure. A genuine smile and engaging presence signals that meeting them is a highlight of your day.

Adventure-Sparking Questions for Type 7s

• "You seem like you've got a story that would surprise everyone here. What's the most spontaneous thing you've done lately?"
• "Quick game: If you had to leave for a surprise weekend trip in 2 hours, where would you go and what's the one thing you'd definitely bring?"
• "I bet you know the best hidden gem in this city that most tourists miss. Where should I absolutely go before I leave?"

Type 7 Possibility Engine (Opportunity-Focused Worldview)

Type 7s see the world through possibilities and positive experiences. They're naturally drawn to new ideas, adventures, and stimulating conversations. They respect energetic, optimistic people who can see multiple opportunities.

Type 8 Approach

Lead with confidence and directness. A firm handshake, strong eye contact, and straightforward introduction establishes respect. Get straight to the point without unnecessary preamble.

Respect-Earning Questions for Type 8s

• "You have this powerful presence. I bet you've had to set someone straight who underestimated you. What happened?"
• "You strike me as someone who cuts through the BS. What's something everyone here is thinking but nobody's saying?"
• "If you had to take control of this entire place right now, what's the first change you'd make?"

Type 8 Power Dynamics (Strength-Respecting Framework)

Type 8s see the world through power dynamics and impact. They value strength, honesty, and decisive action. They respect people who stand their ground and speak truth directly.

Type 9 Approach

Approach with a calm, welcoming presence. Don't rush the interaction or apply pressure. Create a peaceful atmosphere where they feel included and valued from the start.

Inclusive Questions That Draw Out Type 9s

• "I've noticed you've been quietly taking everything in. What's your unpressured take on all this?"
• "You seem like someone who can see all sides of a situation. If you were mediating between different people here, what would you point out that they're missing?"
• "Everyone's moving so fast these days. What's something you think more people should slow down and appreciate?"

Type 9 Harmony Radar (Peace-Seeking Perspective)

Type 9s see the world through harmony and inclusion. They naturally consider multiple perspectives and seek peaceful resolution to conflicts. They respect people who create calm environments and value their input without pushing.