Understanding the people you lead is essential to leading them effectively. Different motivations require different approaches.
This is part 2 of an ongoing 9-part series exploring how each Enneagram type functions in the workplace. Throughout this series, I’ll break down what drives each type, how they contribute, what they need to succeed, and how you can work with and lead them more intentionally.
Today, we’re diving into Type 2: The Considerate Helper.
What Drives Them
Enneagram Type 2s are driven by the desire to be helpful, supportive, and appreciated. They want to care for others and see people succeed, often tying their self-worth to their ability to be of service. They feel most alive when they are making a difference in someone’s life, whether through a thoughtful gesture, words of encouragement, or simply showing up when someone needs them.
At work, they tend to focus on relationships and bringing people together. This translates to a strong focus on team cohesion and culture dynamics. Type 2s naturally spot emotional needs others might miss. They often act as the “glue” holding teams together, ensuring no one feels forgotten or undervalued.
What drives them isn’t about earning approval, as some may assume. It’s about genuine connection — being needed gives them purpose. They thrive in environments where empathy, collaboration, and trust are seen as strengths rather than soft skills.
The Misunderstanding
Type 2s can often be misinterpreted as people pleasers, or seen as being overly involved in others’ personal challenges. However, the truth is their desire to help is not rooted in manipulation or insecurity, but in genuinely wanting to see others thrive. Their generosity comes from connection, not from trying to control.
That said, without clear boundaries or self-awareness, they can sometimes become overextended or enmeshed in others’ needs. This can lead to burnout or resentment if left unchecked.
How to Motivate Them
To motivate a Type 2, speak directly to their sense of purpose and contribution. Show appreciation for their support and recognize the work they do behind the scene that may otherwise go unacknowledged (e.g. the way they smooth over tension or build morale.)
They’re energized by meaningful relationships, and value being trusted in mentorship or leadership opportunities. These types really shine when they are able to utilize their own experience to pour into someone else’s growth.
While this could lead to a mutually beneficial arrangement, remind them that their value is beyond merely what they do for others, but is more so who they are and what they achieve individually.
What Not to Say
“You’re too emotional.”
This kind of comment hits especially hard for Type 2s. It undermines the very qualities they see as their strengths: empathy, intuition, and emotional generosity. Instead of shutting them down, aim to guide them toward balance with compassion.
How They Lead
Type 2s lead with their heart first. They tend to create very positive, inclusive, people-centered environments where others feel safe, seen, and supported. They’re often the first to notice if someone is struggling, and they instinctively know how to bring them back into the fold. Their growth comes from learning boundaries so they do not burn out.
They effectively build loyalty within their teams through their investment in people’s well-being. Their opportunity for leadership growth often lies in learning how to say no, delegating more emotionally intensive tasks, and prioritizing their own well-being without guilt.
How to Help Them Thrive
You can support your Type 2 colleagues by encouraging them to prioritize and take care of themselves. They may need gentle reminders that this can actually be more beneficial to the team as performing their role may also enable others to complete their tasks and serve as a role model. Present self-reflection and self-care as essential, not optional - you have to put the oxygen mask on yourself first before helping others.
It may also be helpful to clarify where their responsibility ends. A thriving Type 2 knows how to support others without losing themselves in the process.
Practical Tips
Publicly Acknowledge their efforts - especially those that may typically go unnoticed
Provide them with mentorship opportunities to help guide others
Encourage balance between giving and receiving supports
Provide direct feedback kindly and with emotional intelligence
Support them in developing boundaries by modelling them yourself
Check in with how they are doing, not just with how they are in relation to others
Enneagram Type 2s bring warmth, compassion, and unwavering support to the workplace. They’re often the emotional backbone of a team, making sure no one is left behind. When they’re healthy and supported, they create cultures of care and connection that elevate everyone around them.