The Enneagram has gained popularity in recent years, and for good reason. When used properly the Enneagram can be a great tool of clarity, improving things like communication, cooperation, and compassion.
Simply put, the Enneagram is a personality typology that suggests nine dominant personality types. However, unlike other personality tests the Enneagram speaks to the motivations of individuals, not their specific behaviors.
Below are three reasons ways to use the tool of the Enneagram in business.
1. Leadership Development
Great leaders are committed to growth and development. The Enneagram is a great tool to help leaders identify their own strengths, challenges, and become more aware of how they are perceived by others. When we accept who we are, and lead from a place of authenticity we are more confident and better equip to help develop and lead others.
When leaders work from a place of genius they are able to work more efficiently, creatively, and effectively. And leaders who are aware of their own limitations and challenges are able to build strong teams of individuals with a variety of strengths, passions, and skillsets.
2. Team Building
With so many personalities and opinions, managing others and building strong teams can be challenging. The Enneagram provides a fun way for team members to interact, gain clarity about themselves, and most importantly learn about their teammates.
Team building activities using the Enneagram allow individuals to learn about different worldviews. Once we understand why people think and respond differently we gain compassion for both ourselves and others. The Enneagram can help teams bond, learn to handle conflict, and work better together.
As teams start understanding each others better, they begin to lean on one another and innovate in new and exciting ways.
3. Sales and Marketing
The Enneagram provides great insights into how others think and behave, offering great opportunities for companies to improve their marketing and sales. Please note, the Enneagram should not be used as a tool for manipulation, but people skills are an important skill to master, especially in sales.
The Enneagram speaks to how individuals receive information, and how they do not receive information. Some people need all the facts and information, while others need more nurturing. Some buyers want to know that they are getting a great deal, while others need confirmation that they are getting the best quality. Some will find a BOGO sale appealing because they can get more for their money, while others will only be sold on the idea of a BOGO if they are feel convinced that the sale will benefit them and others.
Each marketing piece won’t appeal to every buyer, but by understanding what individuals need a company will not only be able to reach more people, but will find that they have more satisfied customers as well.
Sure, the Enneagram is a fun personality test, but is it a tool that you could be utilizing in your business as well?