Using the Enneagram as an HR tool with Blake Boardman (6w5)
Episode #23 / Towards Eden, an Enneagram Podcast
Understanding the Enneagram Type 6: A Conversation with Blake
The Enneagram is more than just another personality test—it’s a deep, insightful framework that helps us understand ourselves and the people around us. In this episode of Towards Eden, we chat with Blake, an Enneagram Type 6, also known as The Loyalist. Sixes are often described as reliable, security-seeking, and deeply loyal, but as Blake shares his journey, we see there’s so much more to this type than the usual stereotypes.
How Blake Discovered the Enneagram
Blake’s first introduction to the Enneagram came through a church class that his fiancée invited him to. At first, he was skeptical—was this just another personality quiz? But as he dug deeper, he realized that understanding his Type 6 tendencies was not just interesting; it was life-changing. Learning about his core fears and motivations helped him make sense of his need to plan, prepare, and seek security in all areas of life. For a Six, preparation isn’t just a habit—it’s a way to manage anxiety and avoid feeling unsupported or vulnerable.
Bringing the Enneagram to Work
One of the most fascinating parts of our conversation was how Blake has applied the Enneagram in his workplace. He works for a company that supports intellectually and physically disabled adults, and he noticed that many of his colleagues struggled with communication. So, he introduced the Enneagram as a “translation tool” to help people understand different personality styles. By recognizing how each Enneagram type thinks and communicates, his team has been able to build stronger connections and reduce misunderstandings.
This is a perfect example of how the Enneagram isn’t just about self-awareness—it’s also about fostering empathy in relationships, whether at home, at work, or in friendships.
The Strengths and Struggles of a Type 6
Like all Enneagram types, being a Six comes with both challenges and strengths. Sixes tend to be highly aware of potential dangers and uncertainties, which can make them cautious (or even anxious) at times. But on the flip side, they are incredibly resourceful, thoughtful, and devoted to the people and causes they care about.
Blake has leaned into these strengths by creating supportive environments both at work and in his personal life. By helping his colleagues understand each other’s Enneagram types, he’s fostering a culture of trust, cooperation, and mutual respect.
Why This Matters for All of Us
One big takeaway from Blake’s story? No Enneagram type is “just” anything. He challenges the idea that being a Six is only about fear and worry—it’s also about loyalty, courage, and community.
When we take the time to understand our own Enneagram type and those of the people around us, we improve our communication, strengthen our relationships, and create a more inclusive and understanding world.
Blake’s journey as a Six is a powerful reminder that self-awareness isn’t just about knowing who we are—it’s about using that knowledge to grow, connect, and make life better for ourselves and others.
