Page 73 - Using the Enneagram System to Identify and Grow Your Leadership Strengths and Achieve Maximum Success

52 What Type of Leader Are You?

Enneagram Style Sixes

Industrious, responsible, and analytical, Six lead-
ers usually prepare excellent project plans, know
exactly what they are doing and why, and find a
way to include all relevant people in the plan-
ning process. Because Sixes have an eye for
detail and a nose for potential pitfalls, the planning and execu-
tion of results come easily to most Six leaders. For example,
Sixes can usually anticipate the most likely problem scenarios
and develop effective contingency plans. Further, given their
focus on team cohesion and loyalty, Sixes are able to enlist the
support of team members and motivate them to achieve high
levels of performance. Team members frequently feel driven to
support the Six leader, not wanting to let down the person who
is watching out for their well-being in so many different ways.
Always concerned that projects go well and are not derailed for
some preventable reason, Six leaders can be counted on to
monitor individual, team, and overall performance on a regular
basis, reminding people of their deliverables and providing
assistance when possible.
Here’s an example of an excellent Six team leader:

Jan’s group was overworked, but its members had all
become used to the idea that sometimes the reward for
excellent work is more work. The team members knew that
the organization counted on them to do the most difficult
assignments because their group had a reputation for excel-
lent work quality and timely delivery. When asked the secret
of her success as a leader, Jan would say, “It’s the great
team I have.” The team members responded to the same
question by saying that Jan creates the most cohesive teams
in the company: “She asks our opinions, helps us out when
needed, appreciates our individual and collective contribu-
tions, and sticks up for us no matter what.”