Type 9 Careers
Have you taken then Enneagram test and identified yourself as a “Type 9”? Just like every other Enneagram type, type 9’s have their own strengths, which makes them better suited to certain careers. In this article, we will explore what exactly a type 9’s strengths are and, based on this, which careers these “Peacemakers” may excel in.
Overview of Enneagram Type 9 (“The Peacemaker”)
Type 9, or the ‘peacemaker’, is the ninth personality type of the Enneagram theory. Typically, type 9’s are easy-going, accepting, trusting, supportive and stable. They are adaptive and strive to be in harmony with themselves and the world around them.
They are referred to as ‘peacemakers (or sometimes as “mediators”) because they strive to achieve peace. Type 9’s like things to run smoothly and without conflict. Due to this, type 9’s tend to be willing to go along with others to keep the peace, but can become overly complacent.
Career Considerations
Many of a type 9’s strengths lie in their desire to keep and maintain peace. At work, they bring key skills and qualities such as:
- Calmness and adaptability. Type 9’s have a calming presence and are able to adapt to many different situations.
- Supportiveness. Type 9’s are very good at supporting and reassuring those around them.
- Mediating. Type 9’s can mediate between others to resolves conflict and restore the peace.
- Open-mindedness. Due to their desire to keep the peace, type 9’s are good a being open-minded, suspending judgement and seeing things from multiple perspectives.
Best Careers for Type 9’s
Due to their calming nature, type 9’s are likely to thrive in a career that promotes stability and consistency, such as a librarian. They need to feel like they are helping others, and will therefore thrive in careers that encourage this. Such careers include as a veterinarian, recreational therapist or caretaker.
Type 9’s also need to feel like they are helping others through personal problems and tension. They are motivated by reassuring others and feeling appreciated. Therefore, they are likely to thrive in slower-paced careers that allow them to connect with others. Careers in mental health will typically match a type 9’s needs.
Finally, type 9’s are energized by resolving conflict. They will excel in careers that allow them to utilize their passion for peace-making and act as a mediator. Based on this, type 9’s may be well suited to a career as a social worker, human resources manager or editor.
Worst Careers for Type 9’s
Type 9’s are caring and calming by nature. When they are not supported correctly, type 9’s may become passive aggressive or and avoid difficult situation all together. Therefore, they are unlikely to thrive in fast-paced and cut throat environments (e.g., sales, banking or recruitment).
Type 9’s may want to consider avoiding where they do not feel connected to their boss or their peers. Careers that don’t allow them to help others may frustrate type 9’s. However, careers that focus too much on loss, for example physicians or other healthcare roles, may stress type 9’s as they greatly fear loss.
Impact of Wings on Career & Work Life
Like all Enneagram types, the type 9 has two distinct “wings”, meaning most individuals within this type borrow or lean towards one of the adjacent types on the Enneagram diagram.
Type 9 with a 1 wing (9w1)
People with a Enneagram with a type nine wing one (9w1) personality tend to identify more with the type nine, but also share several traits with type one.These type nines tend to be hardworking and creative. Often, they are more serious and realistic than other type nines.
Type 9 with an 8 wing (9w8)
Similarly, people with Enneagram with a type nine wing eight (9w8) personality tend to identify more with the type nine, but also share several traits with type eights. These type nines tend to be social, independent and thrive on routine. They are also more assertive and adventurous than other type nines.