My Vista colleague and friend, Kendall Abbott, recently wrote a blog about Enneagram 8s in the workplace. (Check out that great read here!) Enneagram 8s fascinate me…. I’m even married to one. Kendall’s blog was outstanding and got me thinking about what I know best – Enneagram 9s… because I am one.  

The Enneagram is a comprehensive personality framework used to understand the unique motivations underlying human behavior. It categorizes individuals into nine distinct types, each with core emotions, fears, and desires that influence how they interact with the world. This model serves as a powerful tool for personal growth and interpersonal understanding, providing insights into one’s deep-seated patterns of thinking and acting. By identifying their Enneagram type, individuals can gain greater self-awareness, leading to improved relationships both personally and professionally. In this blog, we'll examine the distinct qualities of Enneagram 9s and explore how their natural inclination towards harmony can be leveraged to create a more cohesive and productive work atmosphere. By examining the strengths and challenges faced by Enneagram 9s, we can discover valuable insights into maximizing their potential in professional settings.

Characteristics of an Enneagram 9

People who know the Enneagram know that the 9s, or “Peacemakers,” are often recognized by their carefree and easy-going nature. They are defined by their desire for internal and external peace. I think 9s are very easy to identify in your workplace—they are typically laid-back, peaceful, and agreeable folks. They are not boat-rockers, disruptors, or difficult-to-manage people. They have an inherent ability to empathize with others, making them compassionate listeners who can understand diverse perspectives without judgment.

And while those qualities are great, 9s also have their challenges. This type prioritizes harmony above all else, seeking to avoid conflict and tension wherever possible. Though they can sometimes be seen as indecisive or complacent due to their desire to keep the peace, 9s are also steadfast and supportive team members, ensuring that all voices are heard and considered in collaborative situations. Their core fear of loss and separation drives them to maintain peaceful relationships, often at the expense of their own needs and desires. By recognizing these characteristics, colleagues can better appreciate the value a 9 brings to a cohesive, harmonious work environment.

Enneagram 9s in Leadership Roles

Being in a leadership position and being an Enneagram 9 can be challenging for sure, even though 9s are noted for being wise leaders.  Abraham Lincoln, Ronald Reagan, and Queen Elizabeth II are well-known 9s.  Enneagram 9s are inherently equipped to be effective leaders due to their deep-seated desire for harmony and inclusivity within their teams. These individuals naturally excel in fostering a collaborative and supportive environment where all team members feel valued and heard. Their empathetic nature allows them to approach conflicts with a calm demeanor, defusing tension while encouraging open communication and understanding. Their ability to view situations from multiple perspectives enables them to make balanced and thoughtful decisions that account for the needs of all stakeholders. This inclusive leadership style strengthens team cohesion and boosts morale and engagement, which helps to drive the collective success of the organization. 9s are adept at navigating complex dynamics with poise, guiding their teams toward unified goals and harmonious outcomes.

While 9s bring peace and are skilled at resolving conflict, it’s emotionally draining for a conflict avoider to deal with unpleasant situations, especially when they know confrontation is involved.  Just because 9s appear smiling, happy, and agreeable most of the time doesn’t mean they feel relaxed and comfortable in uncomfortable situations.  I know when I see conflict coming, I see a flashing sign in my head that says “ABORT! ABORT!  ABORT!  RUN!!!!”  I admire people who are able to confront things head-on, confidently, and comfortably.  

Maximizing the Potential of Enneagram 9s in the Workplace

So, how do you successfully work with 9’s and bring out their best in your firm?  Clearly, you can’t isolate all of the peacemakers from conflict and uncomfortable situations. (If you can, please contact me immediately and let me know how you did that because I am all in!) Here are some ways you, as a leader, can utilize your Enneagram 9 team members:

1. They are natural mediators because they possess the unique ability to see every side of an argument. While type 9s tend to avoid conflict, their knack for keeping the peace is unparalleled. This quality can be a tremendous asset to your firm! When your team is faced with making a decision about a company policy or implementing a new process, make it a point to consult with your 9s. They have an innate talent for viewing situations from multiple perspectives, which allows them to instinctively consider the effects of decisions on various groups of people. Their empathetic nature enables them to connect with others' feelings and viewpoints, making them invaluable in navigating discussions. Moreover, they can facilitate understanding among different decision-makers, helping to mediate differences and foster collaboration. In essence, leveraging the strengths of your type 9s can lead to more thoughtful and inclusive decision-making processes within your organization.
2. They don't want the final word. It's important not to place the burden of a final decision on a Type 9 individual. These individuals tend to struggle in this area because they desire to bring insight and perspective to discussions, yet they often find themselves indecisive when it comes to making the ultimate choice. This indecision stems from their desire to consider everyone's feelings and viewpoints, which can sometimes lead to a reluctance to take a definitive stand. However, a commendable attribute of Type 9s is that once a decision is reached, they demonstrate unwavering loyalty to it. They not only support the decision but also provide reassurance to others involved, creating a sense of stability and trust. Their natural ability to foster harmony in group settings is one of their greatest strengths. Type 9s are known for being peaceful and grounded, often serving as calming influences who help facilitate collaboration and understanding among their peers. This ability to bring people together and maintain a balanced atmosphere makes them invaluable in both personal and professional relationships.
3. They tend to repress their feelings and minimize their experiences. Remember that meme with the dog drinking coffee while surrounded by flames and the dog saying, “It's fine.  Everything is fine.”?  That dog is definitely a 9.  Nine’s can be tricky that way – they don’t want to be the cause of conflict, so often they will avoid telling you how they truly feel to preserve the peace.  They will adapt to a situation at extreme emotional cost to them in order to minimize the conflict and anything potentially upsetting.  Nines can go on emotional strikes… instead of speaking up and saying how they feel, they will simply shut down, but they feel very deeply at the same time and have a hard time shaking things off.  I know that shutting down and internalizing is my personal default when I am hurt or unhappy.  So when a 9 tells you, “That’s fine” or “ok, sure,” you can’t really know for sure they mean that… so ask them again.  Let them know you want to know exactly how they feel and that “I’m fine” is not the answer you always want to hear.  Let them know you want them to speak up, otherwise you might miss out on something that is valuable and important. 

Creating an environment that nurtures the growth and development of Enneagram 9s within the workplace is essential for leveraging their full potential. Leaders should implement practices that encourage these individuals to voice their opinions and express their needs openly. Providing regular feedback and creating safe spaces for constructive discussions can help 9s build confidence in articulating their perspectives. It's also beneficial to engage them in project leadership opportunities, allowing them to practice decision-making in a supportive context. Encouraging cross-departmental collaboration can highlight their skills in mediation and diplomacy, further enhancing their strengths. By promoting a balanced environment that acknowledges both their contributions and their personal needs, organizations can empower Enneagram 9s to flourish as influential figures and valuable team members.

A Deeper Level of Understanding

I can tell you this from personal experience: When Enneagram 9s feel secure in the workplace, they are energized to accomplish tasks and goals—and they do this with enthusiasm… all while supporting your firm's mission. These are your team players. Way better than an emotional shut-down, right?

Personality assessments such as the Enneagram offer profound insights that empower individuals to achieve a deeper understanding of themselves. By exploring these unique personality types, one can uncover intrinsic motivations and potential areas for personal growth. This understanding is invaluable for leaders in managing a diverse and dynamic team. It provides the framework to tailor leadership approaches that maximize each team member’s potential, fostering an inclusive environment that cherishes diversity. The ultimate goal of these assessments is not merely classification but rather enhancing empathetic relationships and guiding individuals toward becoming the best versions of themselves. When leaders harness these insights, they enrich their organizational culture and inspire their teams to excel collectively and individually.