Let’s face it—communication is hard sometimes. We think we’re being clear, kind, or helpful… but what someone else hears can be a totally different story. It’s especially true when we’re working with people who experience things in their bodies differently than we do. This is why I want to give you some communication tips, geared towards each Enneagram Type.

What is effective communication, anyway?

We often assume communication is just about the words we say—but here’s what the research shows:

✨   About 55% of communication is non-verbal

✨   38% is tone, pacing, and intonation

✨   Only 7% is the actual words

Pretty wild, right? That means most of what we “say” isn’t what we say at all. It’s how we show up—and how others experience us (this is where the extremely important work in the nervous system plays a huge role in effective communication).

Self-awareness changes the game

If you’re ready to improve how you connect and collaborate, it starts with getting curious about your own patterns. Ask yourself:

• How do I usually communicate when things get tense?
• What might others be picking up from me that I don’t realize?
• Am I showing up in a way that supports connection?

The more you tune into your own style, the more you can make choices that lead to better outcomes—not just for you, but for everyone around you.

Enter the Enneagram 👋

This is where the Enneagram comes in as a really helpful guide. It’s a tool that helps us understand ourselves—and each other—a little better. 

It gives language to the deeper “why” behind our communication styles and offers insight into how others might need to be spoken to or supported.

When teams learn how to speak to each type’s unique style, conversations get smoother, collaboration gets easier, and trust starts to build in a real way.

Enneagram communication tips by type:

Want to learn more about your type and how they play into your communication? Check out my Enneagram Type-Specific Courses!

Communication is a habit (just like anything else).

Here’s the thing: communication is a skill. But like any skill, it needs practice.

Think of it like going to the gym. You wouldn’t expect to be in peak shape after one workout, right? Same goes here. Pick one area to work on. Start slow, but be consistent. And give yourself (and your team) some grace as you grow.

Also—don’t forget about your nervous system. If you want to improve how you communicate, supporting your stress responses is key. We can’t really show up well for others if we’re not showing up for ourselves first.

Want to bring this work to your whole team?

If your team is ready to communicate more clearly, collaborate more smoothly, and actually enjoy working together again, the Team Typing Experience might be just the thing.

It’s a hands-on, Enneagram-based session that helps your team:

• Understand each other’s communication styles
• Build more trust and empathy
• Learn tools for navigating tricky conversations
• Create a culture that supports real connection.

Click HERE to learn more about my Team Typing Session.

Let’s make communication easier, more human, and a whole lot more effective—together.