Enneagram Test

About

Enneagram is a system of personality classification that describes people in terms of 9 basic types. Enneagram is one of the oldest personality classification systems. No one knows the exact origin of the enneagram system. But it is been around a long time and also had religious connotations to it.

The modern Enneagram system is developed in the ’60s. Today is one of the more researched personality assessment systems.  

Theory

According to the enneagram system, each of the 9 personality types has core beliefs and emotions that form the lens through which they view the world and forms the driving factor.

The enneagram system is interpreted from a 9-pointed geometric symbol. Each personality type is connected to 2 other types that offer insight into what the person might have been or grown into. The adjacent two types to every type from the wings. A person might lean into either one or even both wings in situations.  

Guide for using

The best (and probably only place) to use the results of the test is in tailoring the interview for a particular candidate. An additional place you can consider utilizing this test is improving the cultural, temperamental, and personal diversity of your company.

The last thing you must be doing is shortlisting based on one’s results on personality tests. Personality tests will never be a predictor of job success or even the skills necessary for a job. Research on the usage of personality tests for selecting candidates is shoddy at best. BEWARE OF IMPROPER USAGE

Type - 1

Distribution

Overall Population (%)	Men (%)	Women (%)
10%	10%	10%

Personality

Enneagram type-1’s like to do things correctly to the highest standards possible with immense attention to detail. They also avoid mistakes at all costs. They tend to work very hard with a strong sense of duty and tenaciousness.

Stereotype – “The Perfectionist”

Key personality traits

• Serious and straightforward

• Hardworking and diligent

• High internal standards and rigidity in plans

Type - 2

Distribution

Overall Population (%)	Men (%)	Women (%)
11%	7%	15%

Personality

Enneagram type two’s are highly empathetic and caring individuals who put others’ needs before themselves. They are defined by their desire to be loved by others and belong with their peers. They eagerly involve themselves in others’ lives.

Stereotype – “The Giver”

Key personality traits

• Warm and sociable

• Vocal volunteer and activist

• Altruistic

• Excellent team players

• Caring and gentle

• People-centered

Type - 3

Distribution

Overall Population (%)	Men (%)	Women (%)
11%	12%	10%

Personality

Enneagram-type threes’ are driven by their desire to be significant and to distinguish themselves from others through their achievements. They appear confident, polished, sophisticated, ambitious, and goal-oriented. But they might have internal self-doubts that drive them to gather accomplishments. They could be image conscious.

Stereotype – “The Performer”

Key Personality traits

• Impeccable social tact

• Impressive range of accomplishments

• Stuffed resume

• Charismatic

• Extremely busy

• Outwardly refined

Type - 4

Distribution

Overall Population (%)	Men (%)	Women (%)
11%	10%	12%

Personality

Enneagram Type Fours are defined by their unique and special predilections. Their self is driven by their sense of being special or different from other people. They are often creative and present a unique and distinctive persona, either intellectually or by their choice of fashion. They usually struggle to connect with other people. They are constant explorers of their inner selves.

Stereotype – “The Individualist”

Key personality traits

• Distinctive persona – intellectual, spiritual, or outer

• Artistic and creative

• Quirky and expressive

• Strong sense of self-identity

• Passionate about self-expression

Type - 5

Distribution

Overall population (%)	Men (%)	Women (%)
10%	14%	7%

Personality

Enneagram Type fives’ are defined by their quest for knowledge and competency. They strive to understand the world as deeply as they and widen their intellect. At the same time, they avoid engagement with the outside world minimizing contact with other people.

Stereotype – “The Analyst”

Key personality traits

• Analytical

• introverted

• Independent and critical thinkers

• In-depth knowledge in a range of subjects

• Might look apparently lost

• Thinks extensively before speaking

• Insightful and thoughtful

Type - 6

Distribution

Overall Population (%)	Men (%)	Women (%)
10%	9%	10%

Personality

They are driven by their desire for security. They seek to mitigate if not avoid risks whenever possible. They often tend to ally themselves with trustworthy authority figures and institutions. They are always vigilant and always think several steps ahead. They are strongly identified with their social group and are extremely loyal.

Stereotype – “The Loyalist”

Key personality traits

• Strong identification with their social group

• Very organized

• Excellent team player

• Belongs to a tight group

• Clear communicator

Type - 7

Distribution

Overall Population (%)	Men (%)	Women (%)
9%	9%	9%

Personality

Enneagram type sevens’ are defined by their deep desire to experience everything in life. They also avoid pain and boredom and seek enjoyment. They are always lively and fun-loving. They tend to be full of energy, curiosity, and optimism.

Stereotype – “The Explorer” 

Key Personality traits

• Seeks novelty

• Open-minded

• Wide range of interests

• Enthusiastic and energetic

• Very upbeat and optimistic

Type - 8

Distribution

Overall Population (%)	Men (%)	Women (%)
15%	18%	12%

Personality

Enneagram Type Eights’ are driven by the desire to be powerful and to avoid vulnerability. They often come across as confident, assertive, decisive, even argumentative and intimidating. They tend to stand up for what they believe in and protect those who are under their wing. They are confident, independent, and self-sufficient.

Stereotype- “The Challenger”

Key personality traits

• Independent and self-sufficient

• Fierce, confident and determined

• Very energetic

• Strong sense of justice and ethics

• Can be stubborn and headstrong

• Serious about control

Type - 9

Distribution

Overall Population (%)	Men (%)	Women (%)
13%	14%	13%

Personality

Enneagram Type nines’ are driven by their desire to sustain inner peace and harmony and to avoid conflicts. They are usually agreeable, calm, and easy-going. They can be changed and conflict-averse and because of that they usually have a smaller social circle.

Stereotype – “The Peacemaker”

Key Personality traits

• Calm and easy going

• Able to diffuse conflicts

• Avoiding conflicts

• Might be change-averse

• Wide range of acquaintances