How Does Your Enneagram Personality Actually Inspire Website Design Choices?

Enneagram Personality

Where are my Enneagram 7 types? If you are unsure what I am talking about, keep reading. For Enneagram 7 types, life is an adventure.

Life is meant to be fun.

We run from boredom. Well, this 7 doesn’t run, but you get the idea. How does this have anything to do with web design? I’m glad you asked.

In this article, I will briefly explain each Enneagram type, and how that relates to how I approach website design. I have found it helpful to know Enneagram types, in order to provide a better customer experience.

It is also helpful for you, as each Enneagram type could be a potential customer.

Does your strategy hit all types?

Is your user experience positive or frustrating? You have 3 seconds for someone to decide whether they will stay on your page. Will they? 

Let’s look at the types.

Enneagram Definition

What is the Enneagram? I am breaking it down into very simple terms here. I didn’t hear about it until a few years ago, but it is an ancient personality test, believing that types show up in childhood. For more information on your type, or to take a test,  visit the Enneagram Institute. 

There are 9 types, and each is distinct by number, and a title. 

• One: Reformer

• Two: Helper

• Three: Achiever

• Four: Individualist

• Five: Investigator

• Six: Loyalist

• Seven: Enthusiast 

• Eight: Challenger

• Nine: Peacemaker

I am not an Enneagram expert. I find it fascinating, as I do all the personality tests. I also think DISC®, CliftonStrengths Test, and Human Design are other indicators of how to help a client reach their goals. 

Sometimes all I need to do is a quick video for a client, and they can take it from there. Other times, a more in depth walkthrough is needed. Each website is as unique as the person or business behind it. 

So while this article is meant to be helpful, it is also just my observation, and I realize not every human falls into a stereotypical category. 

When designing for a One, perfectionism can block progress. Having prompts for copy, and limiting revisions can help with this Enneagram personality.

They will meet deadlines but may never be fully satisfied with their work. If you fall into this category, it may be easier for you to hire a designer, then go the DIY route.

“Done is better than perfect” is a good motto to follow. 

For Enneagram 2 types, it’s important to get their honest opinion. Natural people-pleasers, they may find it hard to tell you they don’t like something.

If you are a 2 and working with a designer, speaking your mind early in the process will save a lot of time, even if it’s uncomfortable. Many designers, myself included, have a provision in the contract for honest feedback during the design process.

Even after a client approves a design, they may change their mind, and I understand that and work with them. Even if it means starting over. I want them to be proud and excited and aligned with what we are creating together.

I keep this in mind when working with a 2. It could be as simple as changing the style of a button.

The type 3 Achiever. I’m amazed at how much this type accomplishes. When designing for a 3, I know they will have the most content, so I need to allow for more pages.

If they don’t have a course yet, they will. Definitely a blog.

I struggle with consistency, but you can bet on a 3 to have content in advance. On all the platforms. A 3 will meet deadlines and more than likely be done ahead of time. They will want a visually appealing site.

If you are a 3 and decide to DIY, I have no doubt you will meet your self imposed deadlines, and you will be consistently blogging in no time.

The Individualist. People I know who are 4’s are artists, actors and expressive. This type will have no problem telling you when they don’t like something.

They tend to have a lot of followers, or influence, and don’t want to follow the latest trend. Making sure their website has more “you” than “I” is imperative. A clear call to action for potential clients is key.

Type 5’s. When working with a 5, or if you are a 5, perception is a strength. With 5’s, even though they seem quiet, there is still a lot going on behind the scenes. 5’s will know the right questions to ask, and will aid in innovative ideas for their site. 

The Loyalist. 6.s can be the best for referrals. Once you have their trust, an enneagram 6 type will be a repeat customer. They will come to you first, before going to anyone else.

You will need to win their trust before this happens. Highly responsible, they will meet deadlines and will be more anxious if you do not communicate with them.

Clear communication, outlined deadlines, and a task list will make working with a 6 a pleasant experience.

A 7 may tell you they like minimalist design. And this may be true. But don’t be surprised if they also like styles that resemble a 70’s disco. They like that too.

Picking a favorite book, or color, (or in my case, a font), is no easy task. 7’s need a little extra grace in narrowing down choices. 7’s may come across as flighty, or scattered, but they are good at meeting deadlines.

They will also want to change their color palette at least once a year. If not more. 

8’s get a bad rap, just because their title is “challenger.” It doesn’t give approachable vibes. 8’s will want to do it themselves. If you write the copy, expect them to rewrite it.

There will definitely be revisions. They will want your obligation to be met immediately, but they will delay their contribution. However, they will be your best advocate and there will be no guessing on what they want.

They will tell you.

An 8 will want to DIY, because they feel they can do it best, and they are not wrong. Working with an 8 may be a challenge, but it can also be very rewarding. My husband is an 8, and I did his website. He rewrote my words. He had additions.

But, he loved the look. And he loved my designs. And, we actually worked well together. He hasn’t hit publish yet, or I would link it here. Stay tuned.

And last but not least, the peacemakers. In my opinion, 9’s are the sweetest category. My 9 friends are so giving and kind. They want to help everyone. They are easygoing and are just enjoyable.

When working with a 9, it’s important to make sure they are being heard. Reassurance is important, so good communication is key. 

Another important consideration with Enneagram types, is choosing a color palette. Each type will be drawn to different palettes. Sometimes it is hard to know where to start. For an interesting look at color palettes and Enneagram type, check out this article on Enneagram Personalities and color from Sherwin Williams. 

And, if you are interested in where to find inspiration for color palettes, check out my article on how to choose a color palette. And, for color palettes I have created, check out my Pinterest site.

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