The Enneagram Type 6, otherwise known as "The Loyalist," "The Skeptic," or "The Loyal Skeptic," has an innate desire for security and safety in their lives. They are known for their analytical thinking and ability to anticipate potential problems and dangers. Because of this intense need for alertness against possible threats, including avoiding manipulative or self-interested individuals, Sixes remain exceptionally loyal to those they trust.
This type of Enneagram can be found in very skeptical people, with some questioning everything around them and often seeking reassurance from others (aka a Phobic Type 6) and others being more counterphobic, facing their fears in a rebellious way (aka a Counterphobic Type 6).
Although most of your traits can shape your career paths and professional success, it can take time to find a perfect match based on your Enneagram test results. Essentially, you want the reassurance of job security without missing out on opportunities to grow and learn new things. As such, careers that balance stability and growth potential are ideal for Enneagram 6s.
Well, we've highlighted some of the best jobs for Enneagram 6 below to save you the headache. However, besides the Enneagram framework, we also recommend learning about Holland's Theory of Occupational Choice, which may help you further identify the right career path for you.
Meanwhile, let's begin exploring the best careers for Type 6 personalities, and remember, taking a career test helps make the entire process easier, matching careers with both your personality and your interests.
Top 13 Careers & Jobs for Enneagram Type 6 Personality
The Loyalists are caring, responsible, and committed but somewhat skeptical. They excel in roles that allow them to utilize their attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong work ethic.
Some of the top career choices for Type Sixes include paralegal or legal assistant, nurse or healthcare professional, nanny or caregiver, police officer, data analyst, veterinarian, security guard, executive assistant, teacher or mentor, financial advisor, environmental specialist, social worker, and project manager. Each of these roles aligns with the strengths and values that Type Sixes bring to the workplace, offering the stability and collaborative environments they thrive in.
Let's explore why each of these careers is well-suited for individuals with a Type 6 personality.
1. Paralegal
This career is well-suited for Enneagram 6 personality due to their detail-oriented nature, strong sense of responsibility, and loyalty to the people they work with.
Besides supporting legal professionals, Sixes cares deeply about the well-being of others and has a huge desire to protect the people who need it, which makes them well-placed for this field of work. They are also clear communicators and very organized, a very important trait that a paralegal must have since attorneys and other legal professionals depend on them to keep them on track.
2. Nurse
Nursing is a highly demanding but rewarding career path that requires individuals to be compassionate, responsible, and detail-oriented. It's a perfect fit for Type Sixes, who enjoy caring for others, solving complex problems, and working in an organized and structured environment.
Nurses are also known for their loyalty to their patients and colleagues, making them a perfect fit for the supportive and teamwork-oriented nature of the healthcare industry. Type 6 personalities also love to feel needed, and nurses certainly fulfill that need by providing essential care to those in need.
3. Caregiver or Nanny
Their intrinsic "danger-sensor" allows them to foresee and navigate the complexities of caring for others, whether children or the elderly. In this role, vigilance in ensuring a safe environment plays to the Type Six's strengths and enables them to foster secure and nurturing relationships with those they care for while avoiding caregiver burnout.
Moreover, the structured routine and the personal connection in caregiving satisfy Type Six's desire for stability and trust. Those looking to be part of a team might consider roles within assisted living facilities, which can offer a team-based atmosphere without the prerequisite of medical training programs and still benefit from the Six's collaborative and loyal nature.
4. Police Officer
If you're a Type 6 who finds ease when confronting your fears head-on, you may be well-suited to a career in law enforcement. As a police officer, Enneagram Type Six individuals can thrive due to their innate dedication to safeguarding others and ensuring community safety.
This profession's structure, hierarchy, and order also appeal to Type Six's need for stability and a sense of security.
5. Data Analyst
The roles of data analysts may involve data analysis and interpretation to discover insights, trends, and patterns that can inform business decisions. This job profile requires strong analytical thinking, the ability to handle complex information, and a keen eye for detail—all qualities that Type Sixes possess.
They also thrive in structured environments and excel at problem-solving, making them well-suited for this field. Their ability to anticipate potential risks and devise backup plans makes them valuable assets.
6. Veterinarian
This career is a great fit for Type Sixes, who have a strong sense of responsibility and compassion towards others, including animals. They also excel in situations that require quick decision-making and problem-solving, making them well-suited for the fast-paced nature of this profession.
Stress is a significant hurdle in the lives of Enneagram 6 because of their generally anxious nature and constant worry about the future. Hence, this profession will provide them with sufficient opportunities to forget all the stressors and worries of the world, shifting their focus to the well-being of animals.
7. Security Guard
As much as the basic desire of Enneagram Type 6 is to feel secure, they also gain personal fulfillment from providing security and protection to others. As security guards, their abilities to remain vigilant, detect threats, and create a safe environment for those around them come into play.
This career path also 6s to showcase their loyalty while making others realize their reliability and trustworthiness. The structured nature of this profession also feeds into their need for predictability and stability.
8. Executive Assistants
Executive Assistants play a crucial role in the functioning of any organization, ensuring efficient communication and coordination between executives, employees, and clients. This job profile requires individuals to be detail-oriented, organized, and adept at problem-solving—all qualities that Type Sixes possess. Their high loyalty and dedication also make them ideal for establishing strong working relationships with their superiors and the rest of the team.
Moreover, EAs can take charge and lead when needed, satisfying Type Six's desire for responsibility and authority. The fast-paced nature of this job also keeps them engaged and occupied, helping to ease any anxiety or stress that may arise in their personal lives, thereby leading to better productivity at work.
9. Teachers or Mentors
Teaching is a highly rewarding career, allowing Type Sixes to share their knowledge, skills, and experience. They excel in a structured learning environment since they possess strong communication skills—essential for this profession.
As mentors, Type Sixes also have the opportunity to guide and support others, satisfying their need for connection and providing a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Whether in a traditional classroom setting or through training programs, teaching is a fulfilling career path for Enneagram Type Six individuals.
10. Financial Advisors
Financial advisors help clients manage their finances, plan taxes, make informed decisions, and plan for the future. They also assess investment risks for their clients. As a financial advisor, Type 6 anticipates potential risks and devises backup plans as they work toward securing their clients' financial well-being.
Their risk assessment position also allows them to protect their clients from making bad investments depending on the situation. Their analytical skills may also excel in various financial positions that involve data management, number crunching, and making sound business decisions.
11. Environmental Specialists
Environmental specialists work to protect and preserve the environment by studying its characteristics, identifying potential risks, developing conservation strategies, and promoting sustainable practices.
Environmental specialists also have the opportunity to positively impact the world, which satisfies Type Six's desire for purpose and making a difference.
12. Social Workers
Social workers are responsible for providing support, advocacy, and resources to individuals and communities in need. This profession aligns well with Enneagram Type Six's empathetic nature and desire to help others. They excel in building trusting relationships with their clients and are skilled at identifying problems, developing solutions, and advocating for their needs.
Sixes also possesses strong organizational and problem-solving skills, which are crucial for managing complex cases and handling challenging situations. This profession offers personal fulfillment to Type Sixes, as they can use their abilities to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
13. Project Manager
Regardless of the Wing, Enneagram Type Six can make great project managers because they can effectively plan, organize, and coordinate various tasks. They are also skilled at anticipating potential problems and developing contingency plans.
Their high loyalty and dedication make Type 6s excellent leaders who can motivate and also inspire their team toward achieving a common goal. The structured nature of this role satisfies their need for predictability and stability, making it a fulfilling career choice.
Other Potential Career Paths for Enneagram Type 6
Besides the careers mentioned above, Enneagram Type Six individuals may also excel in roles such as:
- Healthcare professional or administrator
- Quality assurance specialist
- Financial analyst
- Firefighter
- Researcher
- School counselor
- Nonprofit administrator
- Therapist
- Human resources
- Research psychologist
Recommended reading: Top Jobs for Ambiverts: What Are The Best Careers for an Ambivert to be Successful?
Enneagram Type 6 Careers to Avoid
It’s just as important to know about the worst jobs for Enneagram 6 as it is to explore the best ones. Choosing a career that aligns with their strengths and minimizes stress is crucial for long-term job satisfaction.
Type 6 personalities often struggle with anxious thoughts, frequently anticipating the worst-case scenario. This makes it essential for them to steer clear of professional settings with high stress levels and unpredictability, as these environments can exacerbate their natural tendencies toward anxiety.
In addition to avoiding high-stress roles, Type 6s should be wary of jobs where their efforts go unappreciated. These individuals are true ambiverts—balancing between introversion and extroversion—so solitary careers might leave them feeling isolated and dissatisfied. Instead, they thrive in collaborative environments where they can connect with others and feel valued. Job satisfaction for Type 6s often comes from roles that allow them to work closely with a team and contribute to a supportive environment.
With that in mind, here are some careers that an Enneagram Type 6 might want to avoid to ensure a more fulfilling and less stressful work life:
- Computer programmer
- Accountant
- Stockbroker
- Software engineers
- Recruiter
- Sales Professional
- Banker
- Sales Executive
- Independent business owner
- Journalist
- Actor
- Pilot
Recommended Reading: Importance of Work Well-Being: 7 Strategies to Improve Your Workplace Mental Health
How Type 6's Core Traits Influence Career Choices
Taking a closer look at the core traits and values of Enneagram Type 6 will help us gain valuable insights into what motivates and drives them, making it easier to identify careers that align with their natural strengths.
As mentioned earlier, Enneagram type 6 individuals have an intense need for security and safety in their lives. They are highly alert and vigilant, looking for potential dangers and threats. This makes them highly reliable and trustworthy individuals with a strong loyalty towards those they trust.
In addition to their alertness and reliability, Enneagram Type 6 individuals are known for their analytical thinking and a strong sense of detail. They are excellent planners and tend to anticipate potential problems or challenges. However, this can also lead to overthinking, self-doubt, and anxiety.
Despite their cautious nature, Type 6 individuals can be supportive and loyal friends. They value connections and trustworthy relationships and are always there to offer a helping hand or provide emotional support. If we try to relate these individual characteristics with Myers-Briggs, Type 6s are a combination of ISTJ, ISFJ, ISTP, and ISFP personality types. This means they are introverted, sensing and feeling individuals who may sometimes rely on logic and emotions to make decisions.
In summary, the key workplace personality traits of Type 6 are:
- Caring
- Loyalty
- Feedback-oriented
- Skepticism
- Attention to detail
- Strong sense of responsibility and commitment
- Focused
- Alertness and caution
- Supportive
Enneagram Type 6 Work Preferences
Many of Enneagram 6 work preferences lie in the desire for security and a sense of belonging. They prefer clear expectations and structure, as well as a supportive work environment that lets them flourish in their career development.
Moreover, Enneagram 6s, especially those who tap into their Type Seven Wing, can thrive in various work environments, whether formal or informal, where their skills and contributions are recognized.
They appreciate feedback from author figures, especially when it is constructive and helps them improve their work. They also seek job security and are less likely to take jobs with a high degree of risk, such as in sales organizations where personal quotas are the stated goal. This is because they are not competitive by nature and would much rather cooperate with their colleagues.
However, this doesn't mean they can't handle risk management tasks well. It's just that their cautious nature may be at play, making them require more information and support to make a decision.
In addition to these preferences, Type 6 individuals also tend to excel in roles that require an analytical approach, where they can utilize their analytical skills. This includes tasks such as project planning, schedule management, and following clear instructions. Their great attention to detail nature makes them avoid big-picture thinking.
Stability in workplaces is another extremely important criterion for Enneagram 6's career development and personal growth. These individuals are not fickle-minded and value job security and stability over salary and bonuses. They never intend to switch from one job to another at short notice without having a safety net.
Enneagram Type 6 as a Team Player
Surprisingly, Enneagram Type 6 individuals are uniquely positioned to excel in team environments where their inherent loyalty and keen problem-solving abilities can truly shine.
Although those with a strong Five Wings may naturally gravitate towards independent work rather than work shoulder-to-shoulder with teammates, they benefit greatly from knowing they have a reliable support system of collaborators. While working independently, monitoring their thoughts is important to ensure their self-doubt is kept in check and does not overshadow their contributions. It can be helpful to make a habit of regular check-ins with a trusted teammate or advisor.
Conversely, Type Sixes with a Seven wing thrive on close-knit team dynamics. When working toward goals they’re passionate about, they often drive a project's momentum. Fueled by a shared team spirit, they actively foster creativity, tackle challenges, guide junior team members, and strive for personal development.
Despite their self-doubts, it is not uncommon for Type Sixes to inadvertently grow into talented leaders with better analytical thinking skills. This can happen organically, without the Type Six consciously seeking out these positions.
Enneagram Type 6 as a Manager
Typically, Type Sixes of both wings often hesitate when it comes to assuming leadership positions. However, when they do take on such roles, they have the potential to excel as effective and capable managers.
Type Sixes with a Seven wing (6w7s) possess visionary leadership qualities in their professional settings. They excel in understanding, inspiring, and building trust within their teams in a collaborative, family-like setting. Their enthusiasm and people-centric approach create an atmosphere where team members feel supported and motivated to contribute their best work.
On the other hand, type Sixes with a Five wing (6w5) embody a different leadership style. These leaders are more introspective and analytical, often gathering information and advice from all corners to make the best possible decisions for their organizations. They prioritize preparedness and knowledge, which can inspire confidence in their decision-making abilities and pave the way for well-informed strategies and solutions.
What Might Hold a Type 6 Back in the Workplace?
One of the primary challenges for Enneagram Type 6 individuals in the workplace is their deeply rooted suspicion that things will inevitably go awry. This often leads to a reluctance to trust their instincts, an inclination for excessive analysis, and a default approach of treating others with suspicion—all of which can hinder effective decision-making, collaboration, and progression. Other factors that may hold a Type 6 back in the workplace include:
1. Criticism and Feedback
Type Sixes may struggle with criticism and feedback, especially if not constructive criticism, as it may trigger their fear of being rejected or abandoned. This can lead them to become defensive and closed off, hindering opportunities for growth and development.
To better support them, consider the following best practices:
- Use a gentle touch
- Encourage self-reflection
- Be clear and direct
- Offer support
2. Conflict Resolution
Despite their typically high IQ and problem-solving skills, Sixes' suspicions can sometimes complicate conflict resolution in the workplace. They may struggle to balance their desire to maintain peace and harmony and stand up for themselves or others.
To effectively help them deal with conflicts, consider the following strategies:
- Communicate openly
- Build trust
- Create bonds with peers
- Be positive
- Encourage expression
3. Stressors
Stress can significantly impact Type Sixes, often leading to fear-based reactions aimed at self-protection. This may manifest as resentment, coldness, and sometimes even aggression. They might also become resistant to assistance during these times.
Type 6's main stressors include:
- Arguments with others
- Betrayal
- Change
- Lack of structure and support
Managers and colleagues should offer reassurance, understanding, and support to help Enneagram 6 individuals navigate difficult times. Additionally, providing a structured and supportive work environment can help prevent these stressors from arising in the first place.
Securing Your Path: Final Thoughts for Type 6 Careers
Finding a fulfilling career as an Enneagram Type 6 means prioritizing security and reliability in your professional choices. Career mapping, a process that aligns perfectly with your analytical mindset, can help you strategically plan your career, ensuring each step is carefully considered. This approach not only aligns with your need for stability but also helps mitigate the anxiety that can come with uncertainty.
Equally important is prioritizing self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Setting clear boundaries can prevent work from encroaching on personal time, reducing stress and the risk of burnout. Additionally, learning to trust others and delegate responsibilities can relieve some of the pressure and foster a more sustainable work environment.
If you're unsure of your Enneagram type, consider taking an Enneagram personality test to gain deeper insights into your traits and preferences. While exploring your Type 6 tendencies, don’t hesitate to explore other frameworks like Myers-Briggs or the Big 5, which can offer complementary perspectives on your personality and career choices.
