Enneagram Type 8 - Traits, Strengths, Weaknesses & Wings

Enneagram Type 8 is one of the nine personality types in the Enneagram system, a robust framework for understanding human behavior, motivations, and growth. Type 8s are driven by a deep need to assert control, protect themselves and others, and stand up for what they believe is right. Whether it’s leading a team, championing a cause, or tackling challenges head-on, their strength and determination are undeniable.

These traits make them stand out as bold, decisive, and protective individuals who excel at creating a sense of direction and justice. In both personal and professional settings, their confidence and resilience inspire those around them to face obstacles with courage and conviction.

Through this blog, we aim to:

• Decode the core motivations and fears that drive Enneagram Type 8.
• Highlight their strengths and challenges to better understand their personality.
• Offer practical tools and methods for assessing Type 8 qualities effectively.

In this blog, we’ll explore the core traits, strengths, challenges, fear and wings for Enneagram Type 8s. Whether you’re a Type 8, know someone who is, or want to better understand this personality type, you’ll gain actionable insights to appreciate their contributions and support their journey toward balance and vulnerability.

Before diving into the detailed characteristics of Type 8, let’s first understand what it means to be an Enneagram Type 8 and where this personality type comes from.

What is Enneagram Type 8?

Enneagram Type 8, commonly known as “The Challenger” or “The Protector,” is defined by a strong desire for control, independence, and justice. People with this personality type are assertive, decisive, and driven by a need to protect themselves and others. Type 8s are natural leaders who seek to make a powerful impact and often stand up for what they believe is right.

Type 8s are fearless, direct, and often unafraid to challenge authority or push boundaries. They value strength and resilience and often have a strong sense of justice, which motivates them to confront injustice wherever they see it. While their assertiveness can make them effective leaders, they may also be seen as intense or intimidating at times.

To put it simply, Enneagram Type 8s can be described as:

• Assertive: They are confident in expressing their opinions and are unafraid to take charge of situations.
• Independent: Type 8s value their autonomy and resist being controlled by others.
• Decisive: They make quick, strong decisions and trust their instincts to navigate challenges.
• Protective: They care deeply about the well-being of others, especially those who are vulnerable or disadvantaged.
• Courageous: Type 8s are bold and unafraid of confrontation or difficulty.

Example: Imagine a social activist who relentlessly fights for the rights of marginalized communities, using their voice and influence to challenge societal injustices. This individual is driven by a sense of responsibility to protect the underdog and bring about real, lasting change, no matter the personal cost. Their leadership is rooted in a desire to stand up for what is right and to empower others.

For hiring managers and recruiters, recognizing the strength, leadership, and sense of justice of Type 8s can be valuable in roles that require authority, decision-making, and the ability to challenge the status quo. They excel in high-pressure environments, particularly in leadership positions, advocacy, and roles that require a strong stance on values and principles.

The Importance of Enneagram Type 8 in the Workplace

Enneagram Type 8s are assertive, strong-willed, and natural leaders. Their drive for control and desire to protect others make them invaluable in high-stakes situations where decision-making, authority, and accountability are crucial. Type 8s excel in roles where they can take charge and ensure things get done efficiently.

For example:

• In leadership and management roles, Type 8s motivate and empower teams, providing clear direction and making tough decisions when necessary to achieve organizational goals.
• In negotiation or sales, their confidence and assertiveness help them navigate high-pressure situations and close deals, often advocating for their team or clients with determination.
• In crisis management or operations, Type 8s thrive by maintaining control, addressing challenges head-on, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly even under pressure.

By understanding the strengths of Enneagram Type 8s, recruiters and hiring managers can place them in roles where their leadership, decisiveness, and ability to handle challenges will drive success and inspire confidence within the organization.

In-Depth Breakdown of Enneagram Type 8

Positive Traits of Enneagram Type 8

Enneagram Type 8s, often called "The Challenger," have several positive traits that make them strong, assertive, and empowering individuals. Here are some of their key strengths:

• Assertive: Type 8s are confident in expressing their opinions and standing up for themselves and others, ensuring their voices are heard.
• Leadership: They are natural leaders who take charge of situations and inspire others with their decisiveness and vision.
• Courageous: Type 8s are unafraid to take risks and face challenges head-on, often displaying a high level of bravery in the face of adversity.
• Protective: They have a strong desire to protect the people they care about, making them fiercely loyal and dedicated to their loved ones.
• Independent: Type 8s value their freedom and autonomy, preferring to make their own decisions and control their own destiny.
• Decisive: They are quick to make decisions and take action, which helps them move forward even in uncertain situations.
• Honest: Type 8s are straightforward and value truthfulness, expecting others to be honest with them as well.
• Empowering: They empower others to take action, be their best selves, and pursue their goals, often serving as mentors and motivators.

These traits make Type 8s ideal in leadership roles, where they can drive change, challenge the status quo, and protect their teams. They excel in high-stakes environments where assertiveness, strength, and determination are key to success.

Challenges for Enneagram Type 8

Enneagram Type 8s, known as "The Challengers," have many strengths but also face certain challenges. Here are some key struggles Type 8s may encounter:

• Fear of Vulnerability: Type 8s often guard their vulnerability, fearing that showing weakness may lead to being controlled or taken advantage of. This can make it difficult for them to open up emotionally or rely on others for support.
• Controlling Behavior: Due to their desire for control and autonomy, Type 8s may become overbearing or dominant in relationships, sometimes pushing others away with their intensity or forcefulness.
• Difficulty Trusting Others: Type 8s can struggle with trusting others, especially if they feel their independence or power is threatened, which can create barriers to forming close, collaborative relationships.
• Impatience: Type 8s are driven and action-oriented, but this can sometimes lead to impatience, especially when others are slow to act or seem indecisive.
• Confrontational: Type 8s are not afraid of conflict, but this can sometimes result in them being overly confrontational or aggressive in situations where diplomacy or tact would be more effective.
• Overwork and Burnout: Because Type 8s often take on a lot of responsibility and work tirelessly to achieve their goals, they can risk burnout if they don’t learn to delegate or pace themselves.
• Difficulty Expressing Emotions: While they are protective and strong, Type 8s may struggle to express softer emotions, such as sadness or fear, preferring to maintain a sense of control and power.
• Struggles with Authority: Type 8s have a strong sense of independence and may resist authority figures or systems they perceive as unjust or limiting, which can sometimes create tension in structured environments.

While these challenges are part of the Type 8 experience, with self-awareness and growth, they can learn to trust others, express vulnerability, and balance their desire for control with a deeper sense of empathy and collaboration.

Motivation of Enneagram Type 8

The motivation of Enneagram Type 8, also known as "The Challenger," is driven by a need for control, strength, and independence. Here are the core motivations behind Type 8:

• Desire for Control and Autonomy: Type 8s are motivated by a need to be in control of their environment and their own lives. They value their independence and self-reliance, often seeking to make decisions and take actions that allow them to maintain their personal freedom and authority.
• Desire for Strength and Power: Type 8s are driven by a need to be strong and powerful. They seek to feel capable and able to assert themselves in any situation. Their sense of identity is often tied to their ability to take charge and be a leader.
• Desire for Justice and Fairness: Type 8s are motivated by a deep sense of justice. They often fight against perceived injustices and are driven to protect the weak, stand up for the underdog, and ensure that people are treated fairly and with respect.
• Fear of Being Controlled or Vulnerable: Type 8s fear being controlled or manipulated by others. They are deeply motivated by a desire to protect themselves from vulnerability and weakness, which can make them resistant to being dependent on anyone else.
• Desire for Protection of Others: Type 8s are fiercely protective of those they care about. They are motivated by a strong sense of loyalty and the desire to shield others from harm. They will take action to defend and support their loved ones, colleagues, or causes they believe in.
• Desire to Be Assertive and Self-Sufficient: Type 8s value assertiveness and self-sufficiency. They are motivated by the need to take initiative, lead, and rely on their own abilities to achieve their goals. They want to be seen as capable and resilient.
• Desire for Authenticity and Honesty: Type 8s value authenticity and directness. They are motivated by the need for honest, straightforward communication and expect others to be equally open and transparent with them.
• Desire for Protection Against Weakness: Type 8s are highly motivated to protect themselves from weakness, whether it is physical, emotional, or social. They are driven by the need to ensure they do not become vulnerable or powerless in any way.

Overall, Type 8s are motivated by a need for control, strength, and justice. Their desire to protect themselves and others, combined with their strong sense of independence, drives them to assert themselves in the world. While they are often leaders and advocates for fairness, their desire for power and resistance to vulnerability can sometimes create conflicts in relationships or situations where they feel their autonomy is threatened.

Fear of Enneagram Type 8

The fear of Enneagram Type 8, also known as "The Challenger," is centered around the fear of being controlled, vulnerable, or weak. Here are the key fears associated with Type 8:

• Fear of Being Controlled or Helpless: Type 8s fear being controlled or dominated by others. They value their independence and autonomy and often resist any form of external authority that threatens their ability to make their own decisions. The idea of being dependent on others or feeling powerless in a situation is deeply unsettling to them.
• Fear of Showing Vulnerability or Weakness: Type 8s are highly protective of themselves and their emotions. They fear being seen as weak or vulnerable, which could lead to being taken advantage of or hurt. As a result, they often avoid showing emotional softness or dependency, preferring to maintain a strong, self-sufficient exterior.
• Fear of Being Overpowered or Defenseless: Type 8s fear being overpowered by others, whether physically, emotionally, or psychologically. They dislike feeling defenseless or unable to protect themselves, and they often assert themselves to prevent any situation where they might feel dominated or inferior. Their fear of vulnerability drives them to take charge in situations where they feel threatened.
• Fear of Being Betrayed or Misled: Type 8s fear being deceived, betrayed, or manipulated by others. They value honesty and integrity, and the idea of being taken advantage of by someone they trust is a significant source of anxiety. This fear can make them skeptical or guarded in relationships, as they prioritize self-protection and trust only those who prove themselves reliable.
• Fear of Being Inadequate or Ineffectual: Type 8s want to feel powerful and capable, and they fear being inadequate or ineffective in their actions. They strive to be strong leaders and make a significant impact, so the idea of failing or not living up to their potential can be deeply troubling to them.
• Fear of Losing Control: Type 8s fear losing control over themselves or their environment. They are highly action-oriented and often take charge in situations to maintain authority and influence. The idea of being caught off guard or in a situation where they cannot assert control can make them anxious or defensive.

Overall, Type 8s' core fear revolves around being controlled, weak, or vulnerable. Their desire for strength, autonomy, and self-sufficiency is driven by this fear, and they often work to maintain control over their lives and protect themselves from any form of perceived weakness or dependency.

Strengths of Enneagram Type 8

The strengths of Enneagram Type 8, also known as "The Challenger," are centered around their leadership, assertiveness, and strong sense of justice. Here are the key strengths associated with Type 8:

• Strong Leadership: Type 8s are natural leaders who are confident, assertive, and decisive. They take charge of situations and inspire others with their clear direction and strong presence. Their leadership is rooted in a deep sense of responsibility, and they are often the ones others turn to in times of crisis or when strong guidance is needed.
• Confident and Self-Assured: Type 8s possess a strong sense of self-confidence and are comfortable asserting their opinions and desires. They trust their own judgment and are not easily swayed by others. This confidence enables them to take risks and make bold decisions, even in the face of uncertainty.
• Protective and Supportive: Type 8s have a strong desire to protect those they care about and are often seen as fiercely loyal and protective. They stand up for the underdog and fight for justice, especially for those who are vulnerable or oppressed. Their protective nature makes them reliable allies and trustworthy companions.
• Direct and Honest: Type 8s value honesty and transparency. They are direct in their communication and expect the same from others. Their straightforwardness ensures that there are no misunderstandings, and they appreciate others who are also open and truthful. This direct approach helps avoid confusion and fosters trust.
• Decisive and Action-Oriented: Type 8s are action-oriented individuals who prefer to make decisions quickly and efficiently. They are not ones to procrastinate or overthink; instead, they take swift action to get things done. This decisiveness allows them to make progress and tackle challenges without hesitation.
• Resilient and Tough: Type 8s are incredibly resilient and able to handle adversity with strength and determination. They are not easily defeated by setbacks and are always ready to face challenges head-on. Their toughness and inner strength make them capable of enduring difficult situations and coming out stronger on the other side.
• Courageous and Bold: Type 8s are not afraid to take risks and confront difficult situations. They have the courage to stand up for what they believe in, even if it means going against the grain. Their boldness makes them effective leaders and change-makers who are not afraid to challenge the status quo.
• Independent and Self-Reliant: Type 8s value their independence and prefer to rely on their own resources and abilities. They are self-sufficient and capable of handling problems on their own, without needing external help. This independence gives them a sense of control over their lives and the freedom to make their own decisions.
• Empowering Others: Type 8s have a unique ability to empower others and help them realize their own strength and potential. They encourage others to take charge of their lives and stand up for themselves. This ability to inspire confidence in others makes them great mentors, leaders, and advocates.
• Passionate and Driven: Type 8s are driven by a strong sense of purpose and passion. Whether it's a cause they believe in or a personal goal they are striving for, they pursue it with intensity and focus. Their passion motivates them to push through obstacles and stay committed to their objectives.

Overall, Type 8s' strengths lie in their leadership, assertiveness, resilience, and passion. They excel in environments that require decisiveness, action, and protection of others, and they bring strength, courage, and integrity to any team or cause.

Weakness of Enneagram Type 8

The weaknesses of Enneagram Type 8, also known as "The Challenger," stem from their intense desire for control, power, and autonomy. Here are the key weaknesses associated with Type 8:

• Overbearing and Domineering: Type 8s have a strong need to assert control, which can sometimes come across as overbearing or domineering. They may dominate conversations, situations, or people, potentially alienating others with their forceful personality.
• Intolerance of Weakness: Type 8s value strength, independence, and self-reliance, which can lead them to have little patience for perceived weakness or vulnerability in themselves or others. This can make them harsh or critical toward those they view as incapable or dependent.
• Impatience: Type 8s tend to want things done quickly and efficiently. Their impatience with delays or inefficiency can cause them to act hastily or make snap decisions, sometimes without fully considering the consequences.
• Difficulty with Vulnerability: Type 8s have a fear of being controlled or manipulated, and as a result, they often struggle with showing vulnerability. They may view vulnerability as a weakness and resist opening up emotionally, even to those they trust.
• Blunt and Insensitive: Type 8s are known for their directness and bluntness, which can sometimes be perceived as insensitivity or harshness. They may speak their mind without considering the impact of their words on others, leading to unintentional hurt feelings or misunderstandings.
• Stubbornness: Once Type 8s have made up their minds, they can be incredibly stubborn and resistant to change. Their strong convictions and desire for control can make it difficult for them to be flexible or open to new ideas or perspectives.
• Difficulty with Authority: Type 8s have a natural aversion to authority figures or situations that challenge their autonomy. They may resist being told what to do or become confrontational when they feel that their independence is threatened.
• Overworking and Burnout: Due to their desire to control and protect their environment, Type 8s can overwork themselves, taking on too many responsibilities. This can lead to burnout, as they push themselves too hard without taking adequate time for rest or self-care.
• Fear of Betrayal: Type 8s often have a deep-seated fear of being betrayed or manipulated by others. This fear can make them overly guarded and distrustful, causing them to push people away or react aggressively when they sense a threat to their trust.
• Difficulty with Collaboration: Type 8s' need for control can make it difficult for them to collaborate effectively with others. They may struggle to delegate tasks or trust others to take the lead, preferring to do things themselves to ensure they are done to their standards.

Overall, Type 8s’ weaknesses are tied to their desire for control, autonomy, and strength. While their leadership abilities, assertiveness, and protective nature are strengths, their intensity, impatience, and fear of vulnerability can create challenges in relationships and personal growth.

Enneagram Type 8 Wings

Enneagram Type 8, known as "The Challenger" or "The Protector," is focused on power, control, and strength. They are assertive, decisive, and protective of themselves and others. The wings for Type 8 are the adjacent types on the Enneagram, and they influence how Type 8 expresses its core traits. These wings are:

8w7 (Type 8 with a 7 Wing) - "The Maverick"

Core Traits: This wing combines the assertive, power-driven traits of Type 8 with the energetic, adventurous qualities of Type 7.

Characteristics:

• Energetic and Assertive: The 8w7 is more energetic and outgoing than the typical Type 8. They are action-oriented and enjoy pursuing bold, exciting ventures.
• Confident and Optimistic: With the influence of Type 7, the 8w7 is more optimistic and confident, often exuding a sense of adventure and a drive to experience life fully.
• Assertive and Fun-Loving: They are assertive and seek control, but they also enjoy fun and new experiences, balancing their need for power with a desire for freedom and excitement.
• Bold and Independent: They can be very independent and fearless, taking on challenges with determination and often seeking leadership opportunities where they can assert themselves.

8w9 (Type 8 with a 9 Wing) - "The Bear"

Core Traits: This wing combines the assertive, confrontational traits of Type 8 with the calm, peaceful nature of Type 9.

Characteristics:

• Grounded and Protective: The 8w9 is more grounded and stable compared to the 8w7, with a strong sense of inner calm and a desire to protect their loved ones and create harmony in their environment.
• Gentle yet Strong: While still assertive, they tend to express their strength in a more gentle, supportive way. They protect others and assert their boundaries with a calm, quiet strength.
• Conflict-Avoidant but Firm: The 8w9 may avoid unnecessary conflict or aggression, but they are still firm and unyielding when it comes to defending themselves or others.
• Patient and Caring: With the influence of Type 9, they are often more patient and understanding, focusing on creating peace and stability while maintaining their sense of control.

The 8w7 is bold, energetic, and adventurous, seeking power with enthusiasm and excitement, while the 8w9 is more grounded, peaceful, and protective, expressing their strength in a calmer, more steady manner.

How to Assess Enneagram Type 8 Qualities?

Enneagram Type 8s are known for their leadership, assertiveness, and strong desire for control. They are often seen as confident, decisive, and protective individuals who value autonomy, strength, and justice. Assessing these qualities effectively can help identify candidates who thrive in leadership positions, can make bold decisions, and are driven to take charge in challenging situations. However, Type 8s may also come across as overly dominant or confrontational, so it's important to assess their ability to collaborate and handle vulnerability.

1. Behavioral Interviews

Behavioral interviews are a great way to explore how candidates have demonstrated their leadership, assertiveness, and decision-making skills in real-world situations. Look for examples that showcase their strength, ability to take charge, and how they respond to authority or opposition.

Example Questions:

• Leadership and Assertiveness: "Can you describe a situation where you had to step into a leadership role unexpectedly? How did you handle it?"
• Decision-Making and Boldness: "Tell me about a time when you made a tough decision that others disagreed with. How did you manage the situation?"
• Conflict Resolution: "Describe a time you had a disagreement with a colleague. How did you approach resolving it?"

2. Situational Judgment Tests (SJT)

Situational judgment tests can help assess how Type 8 candidates handle power dynamics, make tough decisions, and assert their leadership. These tests are useful for evaluating how they balance their natural assertiveness with the need to collaborate and consider others’ viewpoints.

Example Scenarios:

• Taking Charge: "You are assigned to lead a project, but team members have different ideas about the direction. How do you assert your leadership while managing conflicting opinions?"
• Handling Authority: "You disagree with your supervisor’s decision, but the project deadline is approaching. How do you handle the situation?"
• Resolving Disputes: "Two team members are in conflict, and you need to mediate. How do you approach the situation to ensure fairness and resolution?"

3. Work Simulations

Work simulations allow you to test how Type 8 candidates manage power, responsibility, and decision-making in a controlled environment. These simulations can reveal how they maintain control while managing teams, resolving conflicts, and making decisions under pressure.

Example Simulations:

• Leadership Under Pressure: Create a scenario where the candidate must lead a team through a high-stakes project or crisis situation, requiring decisive action and authority.
• Conflict Management: Simulate a scenario where candidates must mediate a dispute between colleagues or resolve a disagreement without losing control.
• Managing Complex Decisions: Present a complex decision that involves weighing risks and benefits, and ask the candidate to make a choice while justifying their decision.

4. Personality Assessments

The Enneagram Test can offer direct insight into a candidate’s Type 8 traits, such as their assertiveness, leadership style, and desire for control. By understanding how they view power dynamics and their response to vulnerability, you can assess whether they are a good fit for leadership roles or positions that require strong decision-making.

5. Reference Checks

Reference checks are a great way to gather feedback on how a candidate’s assertiveness, leadership, and conflict management skills have played out in past work situations. References can also provide insight into how the candidate responds to feedback, authority, and vulnerability.

Example Reference Questions:

• Leadership: "How does this candidate handle taking charge of a team? Can you give an example?"
• Assertiveness: "Has this person ever been in a situation where they had to stand up for what they believed was right, even when it was unpopular?"
• Conflict Management: "Can you describe how this candidate handled a situation of conflict or disagreement in the workplace?"

Role-Specific Traits to Assess Using WeCP

For Leadership Roles:

• Confidence and Authority: Type 8s naturally step into leadership roles, often taking charge of a situation and motivating others. Use WeCP to assess their ability to make tough decisions, lead with confidence, and balance authority with collaboration.
• Decisiveness: Type 8s excel in fast-paced environments where decisions must be made quickly. WeCP assessments can simulate high-pressure situations where candidates need to make rapid decisions.

For Management Roles:

• Power Dynamics and Control: Use WeCP assessments to explore how candidates manage authority and maintain control while motivating teams and fostering cooperation.
• Conflict Resolution: Type 8s may be confrontational, so it's important to assess their ability to handle conflicts constructively. WeCP simulations can test their ability to navigate disagreements while maintaining team morale.

For High-Pressure Roles:

• Decision-Making Under Stress: Type 8s are often at their best in high-stress situations. Simulate stressful scenarios using WeCP to evaluate how they make decisions under pressure while maintaining control.
• Handling Challenges: Type 8s thrive when faced with challenges. Use WeCP to test their problem-solving ability in complex, challenging situations.

For Customer-Facing Roles:

• Advocacy and Protection: Type 8s are protective, and this can translate well to customer-facing roles, where they advocate for the needs of clients or customers. Use WeCP to assess their ability to handle customer complaints or difficult negotiations.
• Assertiveness in Communication: Assess how candidates assert themselves in negotiations or discussions with clients to achieve desired outcomes while maintaining a professional demeanor.

Tips for Recruiters and Managers

1. Combine Multiple Assessment Methods

WeCP’s platform allows you to combine behavioral interviews, situational judgment tests, work simulations, and personality assessments to get a comprehensive understanding of Type 8 candidates’ leadership style, assertiveness, and decision-making.

2. Focus on Emotional Intelligence

While Type 8s are strong-willed and assertive, they may sometimes struggle with vulnerability or emotional expression. It’s important to assess how well candidates manage emotions, both their own and those of others, in leadership roles. WeCP’s platform allows you to assess emotional intelligence through real-time feedback and simulations.

3. Evaluate Ability to Collaborate

Type 8 candidates often value independence, but in most workplace environments, collaboration is key. WeCP can help you assess how candidates collaborate with others, balancing their assertiveness with teamwork and cooperation.

4. Consider Role Alignment

Ensure that Type 8 candidates’ assertiveness and leadership style align with the needs of the role. WeCP allows you to tailor assessments to evaluate the specific traits required for leadership, decision-making, and conflict resolution.

Assessing Enneagram Type 8 traits is essential for roles that require strong leadership, decisiveness, and the ability to take charge in challenging situations. By using a combination of behavioral interviews, situational judgment tests, work simulations, and personality assessments, you can effectively evaluate whether a candidate embodies the core characteristics of Type 8.

With WeCP’s customizable platform, you can create tailored assessments that evaluate Type 8 candidates' leadership abilities, decision-making, and conflict resolution skills, ensuring you select candidates who are capable of excelling in high-pressure, leadership-driven environments.