Every office runs on type dynamics. The "difficult" coworker, the micromanaging boss, the team that can't align. These aren't random. They're predictable patterns.

Your Type 1 manager isn't being harsh. They have a genuine fear of making mistakes and need to feel things are done right. Your Type 7 colleague isn't scattered. They're energized by possibilities and drained by routine. Your Type 6 teammate isn't paranoid. They're thinking through all the ways things could go wrong so you don't have to.

Read the types in your workplace, and you unlock influence. Know what drives each person, and you know how to lead, collaborate, and navigate office politics.

Workplace Strategies

Apply This Tomorrow

Pick one colleague who frustrates you. Guess their type. Reframe their behavior through that lens. What fear might be driving them? What do they need to feel safe and effective?

Adjust your approach based on that insight. A 5-minute conversation framed for their type accomplishes more than an hour of talking past each other.

?

Common Questions

Quick answers to common questions

How can I use the Enneagram at work?

Identify the types on your team and adapt your communication style. Recognize that your difficult colleague may have a different type with different needs. Use type knowledge for better delegation, conflict resolution, and meeting facilitation.

Which types make the best leaders?

All types can lead effectively in different contexts. Type 8s excel at decisive action. Type 3s drive results. Type 1s ensure quality. Type 9s build consensus. The best leaders understand their type's strengths and develop capacities from other types.

How do I manage employees of different types?

Give Type 5s autonomy and time. Give Type 7s variety and freedom. Give Type 6s clear expectations and support. Each type needs different management approaches. One-size-fits-all management guarantees you'll fail with most of your team.