Enneagram Type 6: The Loyalist in the Workplace

Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder and CEO of Facebook, is known for his strategic approach and focus on building a secure platform. His attention to detail and long-term planning are traits often seen in Enneagram Type 6 individuals.

This post explores the traits, strengths, and challenges of Enneagram Type 6s, offering insights on how to attract, assess, and retain these dedicated individuals in the workplace. Whether you’re a talent acquisition professional or simply interested in understanding Type 6 personalities, this guide provides practical strategies for harnessing their potential.

Understanding Enneagram Type 6

Core Motivations

Type 6s are driven by a need for security and stability. They seek to feel safe and supported, often looking for trustworthy relationships and reliable structures. This desire influences their approach to work and their interactions with colleagues and leaders.

Key Traits

• Loyalty: Type 6s are highly loyal to their team and organization. They are dependable and committed, often going the extra mile to ensure the success and well-being of the group.
• Preparedness: They are meticulous planners and always consider potential risks. Type 6s are known for their ability to anticipate problems and prepare for various scenarios.
• Collaborative: Type 6s thrive in team environments where they can build strong, supportive relationships. They value collaboration and often seek consensus in decision-making.
• Anxious: They may experience anxiety, particularly in uncertain situations. This can drive them to seek constant reassurance and clarity from others.

Understanding Type 6 Wings

Type 6 with a 5 Wing (6w5)

• The Defender: Type 6s with a 5 wing combine their loyalty with a desire for knowledge. They are more introspective and analytical, often seeking to understand the details of a situation before making decisions. This combination makes them thorough and cautious, excelling in roles that require detailed planning and risk assessment.

Type 6 with a 7 Wing (6w7)

• The Buddy: Type 6s with a 7 wing blend their need for security with a more outgoing and adventurous spirit. They are more sociable and optimistic, bringing a balanced approach to their cautious nature. This makes them great team players who can build strong relationships while still being mindful of potential risks.

Strengths of Enneagram Type 6 in the Workplace

Reliability and Loyalty

Type 6s are incredibly reliable and loyal. They are the backbone of many organizations, consistently delivering high-quality work and supporting their colleagues. Their dedication to their team and company ensures stability and continuity.

Risk Management

Type 6s excel at risk management. Their ability to foresee potential problems and develop contingency plans makes them invaluable in roles that require careful planning and crisis management. They help create a secure and well-prepared work environment.

Strong Team Players

Type 6s thrive in collaborative settings. They are excellent team players who value cooperation and consensus. Their supportive nature helps foster a positive and cohesive team atmosphere, enhancing overall productivity and morale.

Attention to Detail

Type 6s pay close attention to detail and are thorough in their work. This meticulousness ensures that tasks are completed accurately and efficiently, reducing the likelihood of errors and oversights.

Challenges of Enneagram Type 6 in the Workplace

Anxiety and Overthinking

Type 6s may struggle with anxiety and overthinking, particularly in uncertain or high-pressure situations. Their tendency to anticipate worst-case scenarios can lead to unnecessary stress and hesitation in decision-making.

Dependence on Reassurance

Type 6s often seek reassurance from others, which can create a dependency on external validation. This need for constant affirmation can impact their confidence and decision-making abilities.

Resistance to Change

Type 6s may resist change, preferring stable and predictable environments. Their discomfort with uncertainty can make it challenging for them to adapt to new situations or embrace innovative ideas.

Difficulty with Autonomy

While they are strong team players, Type 6s may struggle with autonomy and independent decision-making. They often prefer collaborative environments where they can seek input and support from others.

Balancing the Dual Sides of Enneagram Type 6 in the Workplace

Balancing the strengths and challenges of Type 6 individuals involves creating an environment that provides security and support while encouraging independence and adaptability. Offering clear communication, fostering a supportive team culture, and providing opportunities for professional development can help Type 6s thrive. Recognizing their need for reassurance and addressing their anxiety constructively can also enhance their well-being and productivity.

Hiring Strategies for Enneagram Type 6

Emphasize Stability and Security

When crafting job descriptions and recruitment materials, highlight the stability and security of the role and organization. Type 6s are attracted to environments where they feel safe and supported.

Showcase a Collaborative Culture

Promote a company culture that values teamwork and collaboration. Type 6s thrive in environments where they can build strong relationships and work closely with others.

Highlight Opportunities for Risk Management

Emphasize roles that involve planning, risk assessment, and crisis management. Type 6s excel in positions where their ability to foresee and mitigate risks is valued.

Interview Strategies for Enneagram Type 6 Candidates

When interviewing Enneagram Type 6 candidates, focus on questions that allow them to demonstrate their reliability, risk management skills, and collaborative nature. Here are some effective questions:

1. Reliability and Loyalty

• “Can you describe a situation where you went above and beyond to support your team or organization?” This helps assess their commitment and loyalty.
• “How do you ensure that your work is always reliable and accurate?” This reveals their attention to detail and dedication to high standards.

2. Risk Management and Preparedness

• “Tell me about a time when you identified a potential risk and how you managed it.” This assesses their ability to foresee problems and develop contingency plans.
• “How do you approach planning and preparing for important projects?” This reveals their systematic and thorough approach to work.

3. Collaboration and Teamwork

• “Describe a time when you worked as part of a team to achieve a common goal. What role did you play?” This helps evaluate their teamwork and collaboration skills.
• “How do you handle conflicts or disagreements within a team?” This assesses their ability to navigate interpersonal dynamics and maintain harmony.

4. Handling Anxiety and Uncertainty

• “How do you manage stress and anxiety, particularly in high-pressure situations?” This helps understand their coping mechanisms and resilience.
• “Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a significant change at work. How did you handle it?” This assesses their adaptability and ability to manage uncertainty.

Supporting Enneagram Type 6 Employees

Provide Clear Communication

Type 6s value clarity and transparency. Provide clear expectations, regular updates, and open lines of communication to help them feel secure and informed.

Offer Reassurance and Support

Recognize their need for reassurance and provide constructive feedback and encouragement. Offer support during times of stress and uncertainty to help them maintain confidence and productivity.

Encourage Professional Development

Offer opportunities for skill development and career growth. Providing resources for training and professional development can help Type 6s build confidence and adapt to new challenges.

Foster a Collaborative Environment

Create a team-oriented culture that values collaboration and mutual support. Encourage Type 6s to participate in team projects and build strong relationships with colleagues.

Motivating Enneagram Type 6 Employees

Align Work with Their Values

Ensure that Type 6s are engaged in work that aligns with their values and sense of duty. Providing meaningful and purpose-driven tasks can enhance their motivation and commitment.

Recognize Their Contributions

Acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of Type 6 employees. Public recognition of their hard work and loyalty can boost their morale and motivation.

Provide Opportunities for Growth

Support Type 6s’ personal and professional development by offering opportunities for growth. Encourage them to take on new responsibilities and challenges that align with their skills and interests.

Suitable Career Options for Enneagram Type 6

Type 6s excel in roles that require reliability, risk management, and collaboration, such as:

• Project Manager: In roles that involve planning, coordinating, and overseeing projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
• Compliance Officer: Positions that require ensuring organizational compliance with laws, regulations, and policies.
• Human Resources Specialist: Roles that involve supporting employees, resolving conflicts, and fostering a positive workplace culture.
• Risk Analyst: In fields that involve identifying and assessing potential risks to an organization and developing strategies to mitigate them.
• Customer Service Manager: Positions that require managing customer relations, ensuring satisfaction, and resolving issues effectively.
• Administrative Coordinator: Roles that involve organizing and managing office operations, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness.

The Role of the Enneagram Test in Recruitment

Using the Enneagram test in recruitment can help identify the personality types of candidates and determine their suitability for specific roles. For Type 6 candidates, the test can highlight their strengths, potential challenges, and motivations, allowing recruiters to make more informed hiring decisions. It can also inform onboarding and development strategies to support their success.

Conclusion

Understanding Enneagram Type 6 individuals can significantly enhance your approach to hiring and managing these loyal and dependable employees. By recognizing their strengths, addressing their challenges, and implementing supportive strategies, you can create an environment where Type 6s can thrive and contribute meaningfully to your organization.