What is the Most Common Enneagram Type?

Have you ever noticed that some people naturally gravitate toward keeping the peace, while others thrive in structure and security? Personality shapes how we interact with the world, and the Enneagram is one of the most insightful tools to understand these patterns.

The Enneagram system identifies nine core personality types, each with distinct motivations, fears, and strengths. While every type exists in society, some are more common than others. By exploring the most frequently found Enneagram types, we can better understand workplace dynamics, relationships, and personal growth.

According to Enneagram research, Type Nine (The Peacemaker) and Type Six (The Loyalist) are among the most common personality types found across different populations. But why? What makes these types more prevalent, and how does their presence shape our world?

In this article, we’ll dive into the most common Enneagram types, their traits, professional strengths, and how they influence various aspects of life.

The Enneagram is a personality framework that categorizes individuals into nine different types, each driven by unique fears, desires, and ways of seeing the world. Unlike other personality tests, the Enneagram doesn’t just describe behaviour; it explains the core motivations behind actions. It is fluid, dynamic and interconnected.

What is the Most Common Enneagram Type?

While no universal study conclusively ranks Enneagram types by frequency, Type Nine (The Peacemaker) and Type Six (The Loyalist) are usually stated as the most common. The reasons for their dominance vary, from social expectations to personality adaptability.

Ranking of Common Enneagram Types (From Most to Least Common)

1. Type Nine – The Peacemaker
2. Type Six – The Loyalist
3. Type Four – The Individualist
4. Type Seven – The Enthusiast
5. Type Three – The Achiever
6. Type One – The Reformer
7. Type Two – The Helper
8. Type Eight – The Challenger
9. Type Five – The Investigator

Let’s take a closer look at the top three Enneagram types.

1. Type Nine – The Peacemaker (Most Common Type)

Enneagram Type Nines are known for their calm, conflict-avoidant nature and ability to maintain peace and harmony. They naturally blend into different environments, making them well-liked and easy to get along with.

They are usually ones that would probably follow the “prevention is better than cure” Because they adapt rather than challenge, they often fit smoothly into social and professional spaces. However, their desire for harmony sometimes leads them to suppress their own opinions, making them seem indecisive or overly accommodating.

Key Traits of Type Nine

• Easy-going, accepting, and accommodating
• Avoids conflict and prioritizes peace
• Prefers stability over disruption
• Struggles with decision-making and asserting themselves

Type Nine in the Workplace

Strengths:

• Excellent mediators and problem-solvers
• Create harmonious work environments
• Can see multiple perspectives, making them valuable team members

Challenges:

• May struggle with taking initiative
• Tend to avoid difficult conversations

Best Careers for Type Nine:

• Human Resources (conflict resolution)
• Teaching (calm, patient)
• Therapists (empathetic and understanding)

For example, imagine a team meeting where two colleagues are arguing over how to approach a project. The Type 9 employee steps in, calmly restating both perspectives and suggesting a compromise. They naturally bring people together and ensure a smooth resolution. However, when asked for their own opinion, they hesitate, saying, "I’m fine with whatever works for the group."

This tendency to blend into the background is a classic Type 9 trait. While their ability to keep the peace is admirable, they may struggle with asserting their own needs.

How to Identify a Type 9

1. They avoid conflict at all costs – If a disagreement arises, they’ll try to smooth things over rather than take sides.
2. They struggle with decision-making – Even simple choices like where to eat lunch might take a while.
3. They are excellent listeners – People feel comfortable confiding in them because they offer a safe, non-judgmental space.
4. They downplay their own desires – When asked about their preferences, they’ll often say, "I don’t mind," or "Whatever works for you."

Type 9 in Relationships

In relationships, type 9s prioritize harmony above all else. They are incredibly supportive partners, but their hesitation to express their own needs can sometimes lead to resentment if they feel unheard. Recognizing this and encouraging them to voice their thoughts is key to a healthy relationship with a Type 9.

2. Type Six – The Loyalist (Second Most Common Type)

Enneagram Type Six personalities are known for their loyalty, responsibility, and caution. Because society values dependable individuals who think ahead, Sixes are well-represented across workplaces and communities.

They tend to question everything and prepare for worst-case scenarios, making them excellent problem-solvers and planners. However, their deep-rooted anxiety about potential risks can sometimes make them hesitant or overly sceptical.

Key Traits of Type Six

• Trustworthy and dedicated
• Seeks security and stability
• Naturally sceptical but also protective
• Often experiences anxiety and overthinking

Type Six in the Workplace

Strengths:

• Detail-oriented and reliable
• Excellent problem-solvers in high-pressure situations
• Strong team players

Challenges:

• Can be overly cautious or hesitant to take risks
• Prone to stress and anxiety

Best Careers for Type Six:

• Law Enforcement and Military (commitment to security)
• Healthcare (cautious and detail-focused)
• Engineering (risk assessment skills)

Picture an IT specialist at a tech company. The team wants to roll out a new software update quickly, but the Type 6 professional insists on conducting multiple security checks first. They ask, "What if there’s a vulnerability we haven’t caught?" This careful approach may slow things down, but it ensures that everything runs smoothly.

In high-stakes environments like finance, healthcare, or cybersecurity, having a Type 6 on the team is an asset. Their natural inclination to anticipate risks prevents costly mistakes.

How to Identify a Type 6

1. They ask a lot of "What if?" questions – They constantly assess potential risks before deciding.
2. They seek reassurance – They often double-check their work or look to authority figures for confirmation.
3. They are fiercely loyal – Once they trust someone, they will stand by them through thick and thin.
4. They prepare for the worst – They always have a backup plan (or several).

Type 6 in Relationships

In relationships, type 6s crave stability and are deeply devoted partners. However, their trust issues and overthinking can sometimes create unnecessary anxiety. They may need reassurance that everything is okay, but once they feel safe, they are one of the most dependable and loving partners.

3. Type Four – The Individualist (Third Most Common Type)

Enneagram Type 4s are creative, introspective, and deeply emotional. They seek meaning in everything and often feel like they are somehow "different" from others.

While this uniqueness gives them incredible artistic and intellectual depth, it can also lead to feelings of loneliness or being misunderstood. While not as common as Nines and Sixes, they make an important impact in artistic and cultural spaces.

Key Traits of Type Four

• Emotionally deep and introspective
• Values authenticity and uniqueness
• Creative and artistic
• Can be moody or withdrawn

Type Four in the Workplace

Strengths:

• Highly creative problem-solvers
• Bring fresh perspectives to teams
• Emotionally intelligent and intuitive

Challenges:

• Can struggle with workplace norms and structure
• Prone to emotional highs and lows

Best Careers for Type Four:

• Artists, Writers, and Musicians (creativity-focused)
• Psychologists (deep emotional understanding)
• Marketing and Branding (unique storytelling skills)

Consider a marketing executive working on a brand campaign. The Type 4 employee is passionate about the project, insisting that the visuals and messaging must have a deep emotional impact. When a colleague suggests a more generic approach, they push back, saying, "We need to make people feel something real."

This intense focus on authenticity and emotional depth makes Type 4s excellent artists, writers, and designers, but it can also make them prone to mood swings and perfectionism.

How to Identify a Type 4

1. They are highly expressive – Whether through fashion, art, or speech, they want to stand out.
2. They are deeply introspective – They spend a lot of time reflecting on emotions and life’s deeper meaning.
3. They dislike being ordinary – They often reject mainstream trends in favour of something unique.
4. They have a rich inner world – They may daydream frequently or get lost in thought.

Type 4 in Relationships

Type 4s bring depth, passion, and creativity to relationships. They crave deep emotional connections but can sometimes become overwhelmed by their feelings. They may need space to process emotions but will always value authenticity in their relationships.

Other Uncommon but prominent Enneagrams:

Type 7 – The Enthusiast

Enneagram Type 7s are spontaneous, energetic, and thrive on new experiences. They bring fun, enthusiasm, and creativity into any workplace to avoid boredom, but their impulsiveness can lead to unfinished projects.

Key Traits of Type 7

• Optimistic and adventurous
• Easily distracted but highly creative
• Loves excitement and dislikes routine
• Can struggle with commitment and follow-through

Type 7 in the Workplace

Strengths:

• Highly creative and innovative
• Brings enthusiasm and energy to teams
• Adapts well to fast-paced environments

Challenges:

• Struggles with sticking to one task for long periods
• Can be impulsive and inconsistent
• Avoids serious or difficult conversations

Best Careers for Type 7:

• Entertainment and Media (thrives in excitement)
• Marketing and Advertising (creativity and innovation)
• Entrepreneurship (loves new challenges)

A Type 7 event planner thrives on organizing high-energy corporate events. However, they struggle with the behind-the-scenes details, needing a structured team to handle logistics.

How to Identify a Type 7

1. They love new experiences – Routine bores them.
2. They avoid discomfort – They distract themselves from negative emotions.
3. They are full of energy – Always on the go.
4. They struggle with commitment – They get excited by new opportunities.

Type 7 in Relationships

Type 7s bring fun and excitement to relationships but may need encouragement to stick through challenges instead of avoiding them.

Type 3 – The Achiever

Enneagram Type 3s are driven, ambitious, and success oriented. They celebrate on achievement, recognition, and progress. They are natural leaders who thrive in competitive environments and constantly seek improvement.

While their determination makes them highly accomplished, they may tie their self-worth to external validation, making failure difficult to handle.

Key Traits of Type 3

• Highly motivated and goal-oriented
• Charismatic and confident
• Focused on efficiency and productivity
• Can struggle with work-life balance and self-worth tied to achievements

Type 3 in the Workplace

Strengths:

• Natural leaders and motivators
• Thrive in fast-paced, competitive industries
• Extremely efficient and results-driven

Challenges:

• Can be overly focused on status and image
• Struggles with burnout from overworking
• May neglect emotional depth in favour of success

Best Careers for Type 3:

• Corporate Leadership and Sales (goal-driven and persuasive)
• Entrepreneurship (highly ambitious and resourceful)
• Marketing and Branding (image-conscious and results-focused)

Consider a sales executive who is always hitting targets, leading presentations, and striving for promotions. They love competition and constantly seek ways to improve their performance. However, they may struggle with slowing down and prioritizing work-life balance.

How to Identify a Type 3

1. They are highly goal-oriented – They set ambitious targets and work tirelessly to achieve them.
2. They are natural leaders – Their charisma and drive make them stand out.
3. They care about appearances – They want to be seen as successful.
4. They avoid failure at all costs – They may struggle with admitting mistakes.

Type 3 in Relationships

Type 3s bring passion, energy, and motivation to relationships. However, they need partners who remind them that their worth isn’t tied to achievements and encourage them to relax and enjoy the moment.

Type 1 – The Reformer

Enneagram Type 1s are known for their strong sense of responsibility and desire for perfection. A Type 1 accountant double-checks every financial report, making sure that there is absolute accuracy.

They have an internal moral compass that pushes them to do things the "right" way and hold themselves and others to high standards. While their perfectionism improves quality, they sometimes spend extra hours revising minor details instead of prioritizing bigger tasks.

Key Traits of Type 1

• Organized, detail-oriented, and disciplined
• Strong moral compass and sense of justice
• Self-critical and prone to frustration when things aren’t "perfect"
• Values honesty and fairness above all else

Type 1 in the Workplace

Strengths:

• Highly organized and efficient
• Ethical and committed to high standards
• Excellent at creating structured processes

Challenges:

• Can be rigid or overly critical
• Struggles with delegation due to high expectations
• Prone to perfectionism and stress

Best Careers for Type 1:

• Law and Justice (fairness and integrity)
• Editing and Quality Control (perfectionism and attention to detail)
• Accounting and Finance (precision and accuracy)

Imagine a quality control specialist in a manufacturing company. They double-check every product, ensuring it meets strict standards. If something is even slightly off, they insist on fixing it before it leaves the facility. While this ensures top-notch quality, their rigid approach might frustrate more flexible colleagues.

How to Identify a Type 1

1. They have a strong sense of right and wrong – Ethics and principles guide their decisions.
2. They are highly organized and detail-oriented – They notice flaws that others miss.
3. They can be overly critical – Both of themselves and others, as they strive for perfection.
4. They struggle with relaxation – They often feel guilty when not being productive.

Type 1 in Relationships

Type 1s bring stability, integrity, and dependability to relationships. However, their desire for order can sometimes make them seem controlling. Encouraging them to be a little flexibility and appreciate imperfections can help maintain harmony.

Type 2 – The Helper

Enneagram Type 2s are the nurturers, always looking for ways to support and care for others. They are deeply empathetic, warm, and generous, but their tendency to put others first can sometimes lead to emotional exhaustion or resentment if their efforts go unrecognized.

Key Traits of Type 2

• Compassionate and highly empathetic
• Prioritizes relationships and helping others
• Can be overly self-sacrificing
• Seeks validation and appreciation for their kindness

Type 2 in the Workplace

Strengths:

• Excellent at building relationships and team morale
• Naturally supportive and helpful
• Strong customer service and people skills

Challenges:

• Can be overly accommodating, struggling with boundaries
• May neglect their own needs in favor of others
• Prone to burnout from excessive people-pleasing

Best Careers for Type 2:

• Healthcare and Nursing (compassion and caregiving)
• Social Work (emotional intelligence)
• Customer Service and HR (strong interpersonal skills)

Picture an HR manager who always remembers birthdays, checks in on employees’ well-being, and goes out of their way to support team members. Their compassionate nature gives space for a positive work culture, but they may struggle with setting personal boundaries.

How to Identify a Type 2

1. They prioritize others' needs over their own – Often at the cost of their own well-being.
2. They love to give and receive appreciation – A simple "thank you" means the world to them.
3. They struggle with saying no – They take on too much to help others.
4. They are warm and emotionally expressive – They naturally make people feel seen and cared for.

Type 2 in Relationships

Type 2s are deeply devoted partners who love making their loved ones feel special. However, they need reassurance that their kindness is appreciated and should be encouraged to set boundaries to avoid burnout.

Type 8 – The Challenger

Enneagram Type 8s are confident, assertive, and natural-born leaders. They are known for their strong presence, direct communication, and ability to take charge in any situation.

These individuals have a deep desire for control and independence, making them fearless when it comes to standing up for themselves and others. Their direct nature can be overwhelming, but underneath their tough exterior, they deeply value loyalty, fairness, and standing up for the undervalued.

Key Traits of Type 8

• Confident and assertive in decision-making
• Highly independent and self-reliant
• Protective of their team and loved ones
• Doesn’t shy away from conflict; thrives in challenges
• Can be perceived as intimidating or overly blunt

Type 8 in the Workplace

Strengths:

• Strong leadership skills
• Fearless decision-making
• Protects and stands up for others
• Highly driven and goal-oriented

Challenges:

• Can be too dominant or aggressive
• May struggle with delegating tasks
• Can have difficulty showing vulnerability
• May resist authority or structured environments that limit their independence

Best Careers for Type 8:

• CEO, Executive, or Entrepreneur (thrives in leadership and control)
• Lawyer or Judge (strong sense of justice and advocacy)
• Military or Law Enforcement (naturally protective and courageous)
• Politics or Activism (fights for causes they believe in)

Imagine a Type 8 entrepreneur leading a growing company. During a crisis, when employees are uncertain about the future, the Type 8 steps up without hesitation, making bold decisions to keep the business afloat. They negotiate fiercely with investors, cut unnecessary costs, and inspire their team to push forward.

However, their no-nonsense approach might be overwhelming for some employees who prefer a more diplomatic style. While they are respected for their strength and clarity, they may need to work on softening their tone and considering others’ perspectives.

How to Identify a Type 8

1. They naturally take charge – If no one else steps up, they will.
2. They value honesty and directness – They don’t sugarcoat their words.
3. They dislike feeling controlled – They resist authority unless they respect it.
4. They protect the people they care about fiercely – Loyalty is everything to them.
5. They are highly competitive – They always strive to be the best.

Type 8 in Relationships

In relationships, type 8s are passionate, loyal, and protective. They want partners who can match their intensity and aren’t afraid of direct communication. They respect strength and independence in others, but they may struggle with vulnerability, seeing it as a sign of weakness.

Type 5 – The Investigator

Enneagram Type 5s are intellectual, curious, and independent. They love analysing complex ideas and gathering knowledge, but their preference for solitude can make them seem distant.

Key Traits of Type 5

• Logical, observant, and independent
• Prefers deep thinking and problem-solving
• Can be emotionally detached or withdrawn
• Values privacy and autonomy

Type 5 in the Workplace

Strengths:

• Excellent problem-solving and research skills
• Highly focused and independent
• Thrives in analytical and technical fields

Challenges:

• Struggles with collaborative or social work settings
• Can be overly reserved or detached
• May focus too much on theory over action

Best Careers for Type 5:

• Data Science and Research (analytical and detail-oriented)
• Technology and Engineering (problem-solving and logic)
• Academia and Writing (deep knowledge and expertise)

Think of a software developer who prefers to work alone, diving deep into coding for hours. They value expertise and mastery, but their introverted nature might make teamwork challenging.

How to Identify a Type 5

1. They love learning and research – They are walking encyclopaedias.
2. They prefer solitude – Social interactions drain them.
3. They are highly logical – Emotions take a backseat to reason.
4. They need personal space – They dislike interruptions.

Type 5 in Relationships

Type 5s value intellectual depth but need partners who respect their need for alone time and don’t overwhelm them emotionally.

How the Enneagram Works?

1. Each Person Has a Dominant Type, but May Exhibit Traits of Other Types

While every individual has one core Enneagram type, they also show exhibit traits of adjacent types, commonly known as wings. The wings add depth and variation to a person’s personality, influencing how their dominant type expresses itself.

For example, a Type 4 (The Individualist) may have a Type 3 wing (4w3 – The Aristocrat), making them more ambitious and outwardly expressive, or a Type 5 wing (4w5 – The Bohemian), making them more introspective and reserved.

These variations explain why two people of the same type may behave very differently in the same situation.

Personality traits can also shift based on life experiences, environment, and emotional development. A person’s Enneagram type remains their core foundation, but external influences can shape their reactions, habits, and perspectives over time.

2. Personality Shifts Under Pressure

Unlike other personality models, the Enneagram doesn’t just explain who you are—it also highlights how you change under different circumstances. Every type has growth and stress points, which determine how they behave when they are at their best and under pressure.

• Growth Point: A type takes on the positive qualities of another type when they are self-aware and evolving.
• Stress Point: A type unconsciously adopts the negative traits of another type when they are overwhelmed or under pressure.

Let’s say a Type 9 (The Peacemaker) works in a corporate job where conflict frequently arises:

• In Growth Mode: They adopt the strengths of a Type 3 (The Achiever), becoming more motivated, action-oriented, and assertive instead of avoiding challenges.
• In Stress Mode: They take on the weaknesses of a Type 6 (The Loyalist), becoming anxious, indecisive, and overly concerned about external validation.

3. Influence on Self-Awareness, Career, and Relationships

The Enneagram isn’t just about personality; it’s a practical tool for personal and professional development.

It creates self-awareness where one can understand their strengths & weaknesses, emotional triggers, and blind spots. By recognizing personal patterns, individuals can break unhealthy habits and develop emotional intelligence. For example, a Type 5 (The Investigator) who struggles with social interactions can use this awareness to practice open communication and relationship-building skills.

Secondly it helps navigate your career by guiding you to fine the right job fit. Each Enneagram type thrives in different work environments based on their natural tendencies. A Type 8 (The Challenger) may excel as a CEO, entrepreneur, or lawyer, where they can lead with confidence. A Type 9 (The Peacemaker) might be drawn to counselling, HR, or creative fields, where they can support others and create harmony.

Lastly, it develops relationships by improving communication & emotional connection. The Enneagram provides deep insights into how different types interact in relationships. A Type 2 (The Helper) is highly giving and affectionate but may struggle with setting boundaries. A Type 5 (The Investigator) values deep intellectual connections but may struggle with emotional vulnerability.

4. Why Some Enneagram Types Are More Common Than Others

While all nine Enneagram types exist across different populations, some are more prevalent due to social conditioning, cultural influences, and biological factors. In Western cultures, people are often conditioned to be goal-oriented and competitive, leading to a higher prevalence of Type 3 (The Achiever) and Type 8 (The Challenger). In Eastern cultures, where collectivism is valued, there may be more Type 9s (The Peacemaker) and Type 6s (The Loyalist), who prioritize community and stability.

Some personality traits have genetic components, influencing a person’s natural temperament. Type 6 (The Loyalist) is one of the most common Enneagram types, as humans are wired for security, survival, and connection. For example, a person with high anxiety tendencies might naturally lean toward Type 6 behaviour, always seeking certainty and reassurance.

How Enneagram Types Influence the Hiring Process

Understanding common personality types is invaluable in recruitment and team building. Companies can use pre-employment cognitive ability tests to identify how a candidate’s Enneagram type aligns with workplace demands.

Using Cognitive Assessments in Hiring

1. Numerical Reasoning Test – Helps assess logical thinkers like Type Six.
2. Critical Thinking Test – Beneficial for analytical personalities such as Type Five.
3. Personality-Based Hiring Assessments – Ensure team diversity and alignment.

Conclusion

Understanding the most common Enneagram types helps businesses, educators, and individuals navigate workplace dynamics, personal relationships, and self-improvement. Whether you’re a calm Type Nine, a cautious Type Six, or a creative Type Four, every personality type brings unique strengths.

By integrating cognitive hiring tools, like those offered by WeCP, companies can build well-balanced teams that thrive.

Want to improve your hiring process? Check out WeCP’s AI-powered assessment tool.