Chances are you’ve heard of the Enneagram test. Whether you read a Facebook article about it, heard about it from a friend or were asked what your type was on a first date, it’s all the rage right now. But, if you somehow haven’t heard, the Enneagram test is a personality assessment based on how you view the world and manage your emotions.
There are nine types, and they all connect to each other in one way or another. However, each type has a few key personality traits that differentiate them from the rest. For anyone that has planned an event, you know there is always a client who takes charge, another who sits back and lets you do the work and one who is who trying to plan an entire event in the span of a week. So, if you are interested in figuring out which type of client you are when hosting an event, this is for you:
Type 1: The Reformer
The Reformer is rational, self-controlled and often tends to be a perfectionist. When a Type 1 is hosting an event, chances are they are overseeing every decision that the event planner makes. The day of the event, they are constantly making sure every napkin is situated in just the right spot, all chairs are pushed in and basically paying attention to every little detail that will likely go unnoticed. They have high standards and often a “my way or the highway” mentality, but they are organized and structured, keeping everyone in line. Although they may drive everyone around them insane, they will host a classy, perfectly decorated and enjoyable event.
Type 2: The Helper
The Helper is generous, empathetic and overall a people-pleaser. When a Type 2 is hosting an event, they are most likely giving up things they want to please everyone else involved. If they want sunflowers as the floral centerpiece, but someone else in the planning party doesn’t agree, they will likely cave and go for what the overwhelming majority wants. Type 2’s are easy-going and generally will do whatever it takes to make everyone around them happy. There won’t be much drama when planning an event with a Type 2.
Type 3: The Achiever
The Achiever is ambitious, energetic, and always striving to be their best self. Type 3’s events will be over the top, as they want to throw an event that nobody has seen before. They have a “go big or go home” approach and it really shines through at events. Think “Kylie Kardashian throwing her 3-year-old a birthday party.” The Achiever wants to gain positive recognition and an overwhelming reaction from their peers. Type 3’s have everything planned out far in advance, from to their fancy assortment of desserts, to their over-the-top goodie bags, no detail will go unnoticed. A Type 3 will likely drain everyone around them with their workaholic mentality, but they will definitely host an event that their guests will never forget.
Type 4: The Individualist
The Individualist is sensitive, reserved and creative. Type 4’s are not likely to speak up and voice their opinions as they are typically shy, but deep down they hold creative ideas. A Type 4’s event will be unique and low key. They don’t want to be the center of attention, even if it is their event to host. The individualist will likely have a band or activity planned, so that the attention of the guests will not be focused on them.
Type 5: The Investigator
The Investigator is insightful, curious and innovative. A Type 5 is more curious about the behind the scenes stuff than the actual event. They will want to learn about the event planner’s day-to-day tasks, hear all about the caterer’s responsibilities and learn about the design ideas behind the decor. Type 5’s will ask more questions than probably any other Enneagram type as they are constantly searching for opportunities to learn more. The Investigator puts knowledge above all else and is likely to plan an activity that allows them to show this trait off, like an escape room or scavenger hunt.
Type 6: The Loyalist
The Loyalist is reliable, trustworthy and typically runs on stress. A Type 6 will constantly be stressing about everything that could possibly go wrong, and working towards finding a solution before it even happens. They will be one step ahead of everyone at all times, making sure the event runs smoothly. A Type 6 will need some calming down on the day of their event or else they will go into anxiety-overload. Once they have a glass of wine in their hand and are reassured that everything is under control, they will be able to enjoy themselves at the event. The Loyalist will need some sort of entertainment, like live music or an open bar, to distract them from what could go wrong.
Type 7: The Enthusiast
The Enthusiast is spontaneous, extroverted, optimistic and quite impulsive. A Type 7 is usually last minute throwing together an event, as they tend to make spur-of-the-moment decisions. A Type 7 goes with the flow, and doesn’t stress on tiny details like a Type 6 does. The Enthusiast will find the good in a bad situation, and aren’t overly worried about what could go wrong the day of the event. Type 7’s have so many thoughts that it is hard for them to focus on one thing at a time, so they definitely will need the help of others to reign them in and get things done.
Type 8: The Challenger
The challenger is charismatic, domineering and always has to be in control of the situation at hand. A Type 8 is a natural born leader and people around them feel confident with them in charge. The Challenger doesn’t cave to the opinions of their peers and are self-assured in their ability to make things run smoothly without any help. Type 8’s have likely been called bossy many times throughout their life’s, but they don’t let this stop them from achieving their goals. The event will surely run smoothly with a Type 8 leading it, however most, if not all, other opinions will not be taken into consideration.
Type 9: The Peacemaker
The Peacemaker is accepting, optimistic and works to create peace rather than conflict. Type 9 is at the top of the enneagram symbol and shares many of the positive qualities of the other types. Type 9’s have very balanced personalities and are open to hearing everyone’s ideas. Their event may not have a theme as they take ideas from everyone, so that each and every person feels included. If something goes wrong they are more likely to look past it and appreciate all the other good things that are going on. A Type 9 is an event planner’s best friend, they want everyone to be worry free and recognize that this event isn’t life-or-death.
Hayden Shelton
Contributing Writer
Hayden is a Senior at the University of Georgia studying Public Relations. She has a strong passion for marketing and promoting brands and is interested in a possible career in Digital Brand Marketing. She manages Spirited Event Groups social media and public relations strategy and content.
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