Case Study: Team Enneagram Workshop – Addressing Disorientation and Building Cohesion
This Enneagram Team Workshop, part of a two-day corporate retreat in Washington, DC, aimed to support leadership changes and internal policy updates within an organization facing disruption. With a team of long-tenured employees, many feeling disoriented, the workshop focused on improving communication, fostering collaboration and helping participants understand themselves and their colleagues through the Enneagram framework. Key outcomes included increased empathy, clearer communication and a renewed commitment to personal and team growth. The workshop also helped improve leadership trust and collaboration, leading to more open dialogue and a stronger, more supportive team dynamic. This case study highlights the key takeaways, impact and ongoing transformation within the team.
Team Dynamics & Culture
The team consisted of a diverse group of nearly two dozen employees, with many long-serving members—many with 15+ years, and some who have been with the organization for over 30 years. This long tenure had fostered a mix of perspectives and working styles. We characterized the team's current mood and culture as disoriented with a sense of being "stuck", primarily due to a new CEO and disruptions caused by the new CEO. There was a noticeable divide in how team members are responding to the changes, leading to increased tension and a lack of cohesion.
Workshop intended outcomes
The two-day workshop, held at the organization's headquarters in Washington, DC, was integrated into a broader 2-day retreat that addressed significant internal policy changes, including updates on raises, staying competitive in the tech industry, a comprehensive DEI strategy and a revamped approach to advocacy. While some of these changes were expected to be challenging for employees to hear, the retreat aimed to foster understanding, alignment and a shared vision for the organization’s future, helping the team navigate these shifts and adapt to the evolving landscape.
To support the overall retreat intention, the Enneagram Team Workshop aimed to help participants better understand themselves and their coworkers, themselves as a team and the leader-team dynamic all through the Enneagram personality framework. Key outcomes included improved communication through practical skills and connection and exploring what a successful, collaborative work culture could look like. Other important outcomes included participants leaving the workshop feeling unified, with a sense of being seen, heard and validated amid the changes taking place, as well as reassured that, despite leadership shifts, they are still a team working toward a shared, bigger picture.
Key Takeaways & Impact
Aïcha Doucouré, Evolve Impact Coach & Facilitator
Empathy and Perspective-Taking
The standout exercise, the 3 x 3 empathy exercise, helped participants see each other’s perspectives more clearly. This activity encouraged team members to "put themselves in someone else’s shoes," which enhanced empathy and communication. As a result, participants reported feeling more connected and open to understanding others’ viewpoints, fostering a collaborative environment.
Normalizing Team Struggles
The Forming-Storming-Norming-Performing framework provided much-needed reassurance to the team. This model helped participants recognize that challenges—particularly in the “storming” phase—are a natural part of team dynamics. By normalizing these struggles, the workshop alleviated frustrations and gave team members a sense of comfort and clarity about the growth process.
Data-Driven Insights
The scientific basis of the Enneagram resonated strongly with the team, especially the personalized reports. These reports offered actionable insights about each person’s work style, communication preferences, and potential growth areas. Team members found this approach valuable, as it provided objective data to support their development and highlighted areas for improvement in both individual and team dynamics.
Personal & Team Growth
Individual Transformation
One team member, previously seen as a wildcard, underwent a significant transformation during the workshop, gaining a deeper understanding of herself and her colleagues, and developing a commitment to personal growth and fostering a more inclusive, collaborative environment. Similarly, another team member, who had been disengaged, showed renewed motivation and energy, with his colleagues noticing his increased involvement and dedication to team cohesion. His transformation further highlighted the workshop’s positive impact on team morale, as he now feels more connected to his colleagues and engaged in the team’s progress.
Leadership Changes
The workshop has had a noticeable impact on leadership. The CEO, who had previously been distant and less engaged, has begun working actively to build trust and collaborate more openly, including a better follow-through on commitments, which is contributing to a more supportive and cohesive atmosphere. After gaining a better understanding of both her own Enneagram type and those of her colleagues, she is engaging in more real, transparent conversations. Though trust-building is still ongoing, there has been a clear shift toward more honest dialogue.
Barriers Overcome
Increased Empathy and Honesty
One of the most significant shifts was an increase in empathy and honesty within the team. Conversations that were once difficult—such as setting boundaries or giving constructive feedback—are now taking place with more respect and openness. Team members are more attuned to each other’s communication styles, which has led to a more inclusive and supportive environment.
Trust-Building
The team has made significant strides in trust-building. The transparency of the workshop and the vulnerability displayed by participants have fostered a sense of psychological safety. This shift is particularly important in remote teams, where building trust can be a challenge. While full trust is still a work in progress, there is a noticeable movement towards more open and collaborative interactions.
Ongoing Impact
The workshop has encouraged ongoing introspection among team members. Several participants have expressed a desire to continue exploring themselves and their colleagues, especially within the context of remote work. Despite time constraints, the workshop provided valuable tools for ongoing development, making it clear that team growth is a continuous journey rather than a one-time event.
Evolve Impact Recognition
The workshop received positive feedback, with some participants appreciating its therapeutic feel and practical, down-to-earth approach, which surpassed initial expectations. It unpacked real ideas, sentiments and provided valuable tips and tools. The team came in engaged and participated fully. Special kudos were given to the Evolve Impact facilitators Jill Barrett and Aïcha Doucouré for their extensive preparations, particularly in understanding each individual and tailoring the workshop to meet the team's unique needs, which contributed to its success.
Conclusion
The Enneagram Team Workshop has had a significant and positive impact on team dynamics, fostering empathy, enhancing communication, and building stronger collaboration. The tangible improvements in trust, engagement, and communication are already evident, with participants expressing enthusiasm for continuing their personal and collective growth. As the team moves forward, they are better equipped to handle the challenges of hybrid work and will likely continue to build on the foundation laid during this transformative experience.