Type 8 Careers
Individuals who test as Enneagram “type 8’s” often excel in the workplace. Indeed, they are often found running the workplace as the supervisor or manager… or even more fittingly as an entrepreneur who has paved their own path! That is, if they can find a career or field that fits well with their personality, strengths and skills.
In this article we’ll look at key career considerations for Enneagram Type 8’s. We will explore how they can use their unique skills and personality to get the most of out their working life. Let’s dive in and learn more about the best Enneagram type 8 careers and job matches.
Overview of Enneagram Type 8 (“The Challenger”)
Type 8, or the ‘challenger’, is the eighth personality type of the Enneagram theory. Typically, type eights are powerful, assertive, decisive and resourceful. They are fiercely independent and strive to protect themselves.
Type 8’s are referred to as “challengers” (or sometimes as “protectors”) because they are dominating and self-confident. They try to use their strengths to improve the lives of and inspire others. However, sometimes they can be a little confrontational and domineering, especially when they perceive themselves as being vulnerable.
Career Considerations
Many of a type 8’s strengths lie in their independence, their desire to protect others and their skill. At work, they bring key skills and qualities such as:
- Confidence. Type 8’s have a lot of confidence in themselves, their skills and abilities.
- Strength. Type 8’s will stand up for themselves and others around them.
- Decisiveness. Type 8’s have strong decision-making skills which tends to make them great leaders.
- Type 8’s also have the ability to take control of both their own lives and their situations.
Best Careers for Enneagram Type 8’s
Due to their powerful nature, Enneagram type 8’s often make great leaders. They tend to thrive in authoritative positions, where they can take charge and lead others. Such positions include executives or directors. It is important to note that, in general, type 8’s will only thrive in these positions if they feel understood, respected and like those below them are working efficiently.
Due to their courageous nature, and their desire to have a long-term influence, type 8’s are likely to be suited to military careers or a career as a firefighter.
Enneagram Type 8’s tend to be profusely competitive. Based on this, they can expect to like any career with a competitive environment. Careers in athletics or sales are examples of ones where type 8’s must thrive. Finally, type 8’s may thrive as lawyers or financial advisors, as these careers are respected and offer competition along with the ability to make a difference.
Worst Careers for Enneagram Type 8’s
Due to their assertiveness and dominance, Enneagram type 8’s are unlikely to thrive in environments where they feel micromanaged or too controlled. Type 8’s may want to avoid careers where they will feel insignificant and unable to make their own decisions. Such careers include as technicians, research assistants or administrative staff.
Similarly, Enneagram type 8’s are unlikely to thrive in careers where they do not feel that they are helping others or making a lasting impact. Finally, careers, such as an editor or producer, might drain type 8’s. This is because they may not be able to handle the feedback and constructive criticism that people in these roles receive.
Impact of Wings on Career & Work Life
Like all Enneagram types, the type 8 has two distinct “wings”, meaning most individuals within this type borrow or lean towards one of the adjacent types on the Enneagram diagram.
Type 8 with a 7 wing (8w7)
People with a Enneagram type eight wing seven (8w7) personality tend to identify more with the type eight, but also share several traits with type sevens. These type eights tend to be ambitious and independent. They are generally more comfortable with conflict than other type eights.
Type 8 with a 9 wing (8w9)
Similarly, people with a Enneagram type eight wing nine (8w9) personality tend to identify more with the type eight, but also share several traits with type nines. These type eights tend to be confident, patient and protective. They are, however, more gentle and subdued that other type eights.