What Makes You Feel Valued at Work? By Enneagram Type
Sometimes I think we get so caught up examining the differences between the types that we lose sight of our similarities. When I asked about what makes each type feel valued at work, every type shared that they appreciate being recognized for a job well done, even in small ways.
In this blog, we’ll explore ways that each Enneagram type feels recognized and valued in a work environment.
So let your coworkers / employees / managers / group project buddies know how much you appreciate them!
If you’d like to see what others of your type have to say about this post, you can find it on Instagram right here, and join the conversation!
Type One
Belonging — I get stuff done, but I’m also a human who likes to feel seen
Being recognized for my hard work
Having a voice in projects
Feeling like people appreciate how thorough I am
Being understood and respected
When people go out of their way to recognize the effort I put in
Feeling included, both socially and in work processes
Type Two
When coworkers volunteer to help me
When I’m credited for my effort and contributions
Being trusted with big responsibilities
Verbal appreciation, especially specific compliments
When I’m given a special project because they know I’ll be good at it
Being asked about what I think or want
Hearing what I’m doing well as well as what I need to improve
Type Three
Positive feedback
When my boss trusts me to explore big new ideas and make things happen
Receiving timely, actionable feedback
When others get excited with me
Being asked to take on projects or attend important meetings
Recognition that I’ve done a great job and gotten results
Being paid well & having a title I’m proud of
Type Four
Feeling that my role is impactful & that my unique gifts are valued
Being trusted to do my work well / not micromanaged
Receiving verbal affirmation about the qualities I bring to the team
Being given more responsibility
Being told my work is exceptional in some way
When people ask for & value my creative ideas
Freedom to do things my own way
Type Five
When I’m given context of a situation because they know it’s important for me
When people take time to listen and consider my ideas
Verbal acknowledgment of my contribution
Clear communication
Validation of my skills through words or actions
Feeling like I have time to process
Relying on quantitative data to show my success
Type Six
Feeling like I’m a part of a team
When others acknowledge how dependable and reliable I am
Feeling supported to ask questions and give input
Knowing that if I have too much to do, I can count on coworkers to help
When my boss and coworkers trust me to do a good job
Seeing the systems and processes I’ve created put to use
When people take time to understand my thought process behind a decision
Type Seven
Positive words and affirmation
Being trusted to do the job I’ve been asked to do without micromanaging
Thank-you lunches
Getting recognition for how I’ve solved a problem
Feeling proud of my own work
When others appreciate my vision and ideas
When I feel like I’m part of the team but I also have creative freedom
Type Eight
Accomplishing things that make a big impact
When people listen to my advice
Being respected for my leadership and contribution
When I’m trusted to do my thing and work independently
Seeing my work actually being used and appreciated
Being told my efforts are appreciated
A simple thank you is normally enough
Type Nine
Feeling like my contribution is noticed and appreciated
When others see how thoughtfully I approach my work and rely on me for that
Feeling like my concerns are validated and understood
Not being taken advantage of when I offer help or support
When people offer constructive feedback without being confrontational
Being listened to and sincerely asked for advice
Working with people who are approachable and keep our common goal in mind
What makes you feel valued at work? Do you have a specific example you’d like to share? Join the conversation here and tell me in the comments!
Want to explore more about your type and how to apply the Enneagram to your everyday life? My book, Enneagram in Real Life, provides you with a step-by-step guide to use the Enneagram as a practical tool for self-discovery, self-awareness, curiosity, and relational wholeness.
