How to effectively communicate at work with each Enneagram type.

It’s the #1 problem that causes teams to reach out to me for help: bad communication.

Poor communication in the workplace causes misunderstandings, low morale, and badly completed tasks, leading to frustration between management and staff. 

But it’s probably best explained by one of my worst workdays - back when I was a part-time administrative assistant in college. 

A personal example of poor workplace communication

The CFO called me into her office and asked me to deliver a message to one of the salesmen. Looking back on it now, that should’ve been a clue. Why are you sending a 20-year-old to do something you could easily email or do yourself? 

But I marched into that salesman’s office and delivered the message. I don’t remember what it was – something about expense reports.

Unbeknownst to me, I touched a nerve. I watched this guy’s hackles rise, his eyes got beady, and he snarled at me, “You can tell CFO that if she wants to tell me something, she can talk to me herself, not send a little messenger who doesn’t know anything.” 

I immediately felt tears well up, spun on my heel, and power walked to my cubicle where I processed my embarrassment and shock. 

Years later, I can’t help but think that the interaction - and all the tension that was clearly unresolved underneath it - could’ve been helped using the Enneagram. 

Because we all communicate SO differently, understanding your coworker’s most natural communication method can be a game changer! Not only does it invite compassion into the workplace, but it also makes things more productive. 

(Psst… if you want to bring me in for a fun & helpful team workshop to help your office communicate compassionately, let’s do a 15-minute discovery call! You can sign up here.) 

Here is a little cheat sheet that you can start using at work ASAP: 

Enneagram Type 1 

Avoid harsh criticism. I guarantee that 1s are harder on themselves than anybody will ever be with them. So if they make a mistake, remember that they’ve already beaten themselves up over it many times. 

Enneagram Type 2

Use the sandwich method, baby! Leading with positivity does wonders for Type 2, who often feel unrecognized for all the effort they put in. Sandwiching the issue with positive feedback will let 2s know they are still wanted and appreciated.

Enneagram Type 3 

Don’t dwell on the bad stuff. If there’s a problem, let’s solve it and move on. Fatalistic energy is not the vibe. Oh, and also? If you are giving feedback, make it into actionable steps. Nothing frustrates a 3 more than vague expectations. 

Enneagram Type 4

Make it clear that you have heard and understood their ideas, even if they’re not going to be used in the long run. 4s just want to feel like their ideas matter. 

Enneagram Type 5

Don’t micromanage. I can’t emphasize this enough. 5s are fine on their own. Plus, don't drain their energy with unexpected meetings that should have been an email.

Enneagram Type 6

As the troubleshooters of the office, this type often struggles with the heaviness of all the problems. I recommend that you bring on the dad jokes. I’m not saying that you brush off their concerns or tell them “not to worry,” but if you can bring laughter into conversations that can make the workday feel much brighter. 

Enneagram Type 7

Negativity is going to deflate them like a balloon. Helpful tools are the sandwich method (see Type 2) and welcoming their ideas into problem-solving. 7s don’t want to feel trapped, so if they can have a say in how things are resolved, you’re going to have a much happier 7 on your hands.  

Enneagram Type 8

This one’s simple: back up your word with actions. Do what you say you’re going to do.

Enneagram Type 9

Explicitly recognize their contributions to the team, whether that be a Slack message or a nice present. 9s often fly under the radar at work. Please make sure that you are making an effort to let them know that they are appreciated! 

I hope these tips help!