You may have noticed that we talk a lot about the Enneagram (ANY-a-gram) at Flipp. It is a core pillar of our culture and we deeply believe in its ability to strengthen any team. Over the next few months, we will be posting about how to work and communicate with each of the 9 types effectively. We hope it will pique your curiosity to learn more about self-awareness and its importance in teams and leadership.

We will begin with Enneagram Type 1, also known as “The Perfectionist”. Type 1s can be a valuable asset in the workplace due to their strong sense of integrity, focus on improvement, and attention to detail. However, working with a Type 1 can also be challenging, as their desire for order and structure can sometimes come across as rigid or inflexible.

Tips for working effectively with a Type 1:

Communicate clearly and directly

Type 1s appreciate clarity and precision in communication, so be sure to provide them with clear instructions and expectations. Avoid using vague or ambiguous language, as this can frustrate a Type 1 who values accuracy and clarity.

Focus on solutions, not problems

Type 1s can be very critical of themselves and others, which can sometimes lead them to focus on what’s wrong rather than what’s working. When working with a Type 1, try to frame your feedback in a positive and constructive way, emphasizing potential solutions rather than dwelling on the problem.

Be open to feedback

Type 1s are often self-critical and hold themselves to high standards, but they may also have high expectations for those around them. If a Type 1 offers you feedback or constructive criticism, try to receive it with an open mind and a willingness to learn and improve.

Respect their need for structure

Type 1s appreciate order and structure in their work, so try to provide clear guidelines and a structured environment whenever possible. Avoid making last-minute changes or springing surprises on Type 1, as this can be unsettling for them.

Appreciate their attention to detail

Type 1s have a keen eye for detail and can be very thorough. Recognize and appreciate their contributions, and try to give them opportunities to showcase their skills and expertise.

Help them manage perfectionism

Type 1s can sometimes get bogged down in details or become overly focused on achieving perfection. Encourage them to set realistic goals and deadlines, and remind them that sometimes “good enough” is actually good enough.

By understanding and appreciating the strengths and challenges of a Type 1, you can build stronger relationships and work more effectively together. With clear communication, a focus on solutions, and a willingness to learn and grow, you can harness the strengths of a Type 1 and create a more productive and satisfying work environment for everyone involved.

Every business benefits from every Enneagram type.

The key is understanding the strengths (and pet peeves) of the individuals on your team so that you can maximize the power of the group as a whole.  The goal (for all of us) is to become more aware of our personality style, how we impact the people around us, and how to empathize with alternative perspectives to our own. If you are curious about what Enneagram type you and the members of your team are,  contact us to find out more about our Flipp Team Optimization Workshop. We use professional Enneagram assessments with a certified Enneagram coach to get you and your team to understand each other in a new way. Stay tuned for more in this blog series as we learn about the remaining Enneagram types and how to collaborate with each.