Job search advice...based on your Enneagram

Everyone approaches problems differently, and the job search is no exception. While there is advice that everyone should follow, you also need to know what works for you. Take a look at these job search tips based on your Enneagram type. (If you don't know it, I highly recommend taking the test).

Type One - The Reformer

Reformers tend to be perfectionists. Did your recruiter forget to get back to you? Did the interview start late? Relax. Remember that you’re dealing with humans who all make mistakes. Don’t be too hard on the people trying to help you.

Type Two - The Helper

You’re an altruist. You want the best for everyone around you. Don’t let yourself negotiate a lower salary than you’re worth or agree to responsibilities you really can’t handle. It’s okay to say no sometimes—even in the job search.

Type Three - The Achiever

At your best, you are self-assured and ambitious. You probably don’t need a lot of interview advice, so I’ll hit you at a different angle: keep it real. If there’s ever a time to brag about your achievements, it’s during the job hunt. But make sure not to belittle previous employers or colleagues when talking about your successes.

Type Four - The Individualist

I bet you have a fantastic portfolio, you creative mastermind you. No, seriously! Individualists are amazing creators. So stop doubting your self-worth when you get rejected! Just because one employer passes doesn’t mean you can’t hack it in tech.

Type Five - The Investigator

You’re the one they come to when they need ideas. You get the big picture, and you think about it all the time. That’s great! Make sure you can talk about your soft skills and portfolio too. If you’re in the technical interview, talk about the ideas all you want, but try to stay in the moment and talk directly with recruiters and hiring managers about your soft skills and achievements too.

Type Six - The Loyalist

You’re at your best when you’re around people you trust. Life is good when you’re safe and secure. Let me throw a wrench in that for a second: have you thought about getting a new job? The market is hot right now. Make sure you’re getting the most out of your career. That might mean taking a risk.

Type Seven - The Enthusiast

I can see it in your eyes: you love new experiences. You’re probably the kind of person who loves the job search just because you want to learn something new. Do something for me quickly. Check your resume—look at your work experience. Did you feel content in your last job? How about the one before that? You can move around a lot in tech, and I encourage that. Make sure your work history tells a story.

Type Eight - The Challenger

You can build any software you set your mind to and your resume proves it! Your resourcefulness and decision-making skills are your sources of pride. When you’re interviewing, make sure you can demonstrate that you’re flexible too. It’s just as important to demonstrate that you are capable of adapting to different ways of thinking, even if it’s not your way.

Type Nine - The Peacemaker

You’re a great mediator. People tend to trust you. However, you tend to minimize problems and conflict. Take it from me—don’t settle for the first job just because it’s a job! If the offer is full of red flags, you shouldn’t accept it just to end the job search.