Let’s call them powerskills. 71% of employers value emotional intelligence over IQ, reporting that employees with high emotional intelligence are more likely to stay calm under pressure, resolve conflict effectively, and respond to co-workers with empathy.

The Enneagram reaches beyond our behaviors and reaches into our MOTIVATIONS. The #motivation “why” of our behaviors, it is a self-awareness meter on a continuum. Any and every day you show up differently based on your biology, biography, bias, and backstory. (Not to mention how well you slept or your hunger level). Haruki Murakami informs us that, “Body cells replace themselves every month. Even at this very moment. Most everything you think you know about me is nothing more than memories.” This is complex stuff. Especially when you apply it to a team and relationships. Basically, we are constantly changing, and the Enneagram assessment honors that.

A friend was telling a story about living overseas. She had reasonably nice accommodations, but occasionally while she was showering, the pilot light would go out on the hot water heater. She had a choice to make, either she would take her soaped-up self, wrapped in a towel to re-light the pilot light, or she would be miserable in a cold shower.

Human behavior is complex. People are complex. Situations are complex. Global work is complex. More and more companies have a distributed work force, making it more difficult than ever to get to know your people and for your people to feel connected.

In the post-pandemic era, personality tests seem to have a new relevance. I use the #Enneagram to identify unique personalities, strengths, talents, blind-spots, and build more self-awareness. This all helps determine who will thrive in which work arrangements and to determine which personality mix can maximize a team’s chance of success.