Beyond Job Titles: How the Enneagram Can Transform Teamwork

Not long ago, I sat in a meeting with a leadership team that had been struggling to connect. The goals were clear. The skills were sharp. But the collaboration? Tense, inefficient, and full of missed signals.

Enter the Enneagram.

After guiding the group through a series of assessments and facilitated conversations, something shifted. People started saying things like:

• “I finally understand why she pushes for certainty.”

• “I didn’t realize my directness was shutting people down.”

• “It feels safer to bring ideas forward now.”

It wasn’t a personality overhaul—it was a pattern interrupt. A shared language. A way to decode conflict and build trust through understanding.

The Power of Assessments When Used Well

I’ve used countless assessments over the years—some brilliant, some forgettable. The key isn’t the tool alone. It’s how you activate it.

When done right, assessments help teams:

• Enhance emotional intelligence through increased self-awareness

• Navigate tension by recognizing different motivations and stress responses

• Build psychological safety by fostering curiosity, not judgment

• Accelerate collaboration with shared language and clarity of strengths

But when treated as a “check-the-box” HR activity, their value diminishes quickly. That’s why delivery matters.

Why Enneagram Stands Out

In my experience, the Enneagram is one of the most insightful tools available.

What makes it unique:

• It goes beyond behavior to highlight inner drivers and fears

• It helps people understand not just what they do—but why they do it

• It creates a roadmap for stress, growth, and communication styles

When introduced thoughtfully, it opens up some of the most honest and productive conversations teams ever have.

Making the Investment Worth It

Assessments come at a cost—financial, time, and emotional openness. To get the most out of them:

• Start with intention: What do you want the team to learn or shift?

• Use a skilled facilitator: Delivery makes or breaks the impact

• Integrate insights: Don’t let the results live in a drawer; bring them into 1:1s, retrospectives, team offsites

• Keep it human: Focus on empathy, not labeling

How My Team Can Help

At Silver Fern HR Consulting, we create development experiences that stick—not just a quick workshop, but a transformative reset. We deliver Enneagram programs that:

• Are tailored to your organization’s dynamics

• Include facilitated sessions and coaching follow-ups

• Invite deep reflection without feeling like therapy

• Spark real momentum in trust, collaboration, and culture

If your team is ready to work better together—not just harder—we’d love to guide you through it.

Reach out to learn more or explore how Enneagram could support your culture goals.