The Engaging Donor and the Principled Donor Personality Types (Type 2 and Type 6)

In this article, part of the donor personality series, we look at the Engaging Donor and the Principled Donor. These are two donor personality types on the Enneagram that share many key traits. Try to identify these types in your congregation, so that you can be a better leader.

The Engaging Donor and the Principled Donor are also known as Type Two and Type Six. Both are warm and engaging. We see the slight difference in how Twos have a deep need to be loved by and important to others, while Sixes often seek the approval of others more.

Twos are also better known for inviting people into their lives; they may be eager to invite new friends and colleagues to your Bible studies and can be instrumental in bringing new donors over to your fundraisers. Sixes might be warier about this.

If you have encouraged them to refer others to your fundraiser, and they still have not made the effort, don’t take this negatively. It could be that they are more selective about whom they want to bring into their closer circles.

Let’s recap more of the common traits of both these types.

Type Two: The Engaging Donor personality Type

People with an Enneagram Type Two personality are active in most churches and like being around people and pastors who motivate them. They are generous, hardworking, and have lots of connections.

However, remember that although the Engaging Donor is generous, they sometimes aim to please others. Church pastors must help Engaging Donors focus on church outreach programs that appeal to their social, selfless side.

Most Notable Traits:

• “Heart of gold.”
• Emotionally driven.
• Caring.
• Has deep feelings.
• Sentimental.
• Empathetic.
• Natural around people.
• Enjoys hands-on outreach events.
• Often busy with social events.

For a recap of all the nine personality types of donors, check out the full Donor Personality test here.

Donor Personality Type 6: The Principled Donor personality Type

People with an Enneagram Type Six personality are a blessing to have in the church. They are very hardworking and responsible in their behavior. One thing to watch out for is their tendency to feel anxious and suspicious. As pastors and leaders of these types of donors, make sure that you practice what you preach.

The Following Terms Describe a Principled Donor Best:

• Hard-working.
• Very responsible.
• Family-oriented.
• Doesn’t usually disappoint.
• Loyal yet skeptical.
• True to their word.
• Has realistic expectations.
• Never goes back on their word.
• Reliable.
• Best to call in emergencies.
• Always has your back.

More Tips for Leaders of the Engaging Donor and the Principled Donor personality Types

If you feel that you have both Twos and Sixes in your congregation, how can you appeal to them in a way that makes them willing to give and become regular supporters?

You must learn how to handle their emotions with wisdom. For this, we can look at the corresponding Jungian feeling types—in this case, the Twos are the extroverted feeling types and the Sixes are the introverted feeling types.

Twos can be more open about their feelings, while Sixes may send mixed signals. You may think, “Do they or do they not want to donate?” “Are they reluctant to show up to the church service because of emotional issues?” It’s true, Sixes are often filled with anxiety, indecision, and doubts. As their pastor, do all you can to build up faith, hope, and reassurance.

How to Appeal to the Engaging Donor and the Principled Donor personality Types

As both donor personality types look up to authoritative figures, you can help them build better confidence and independence. Show them how their gifts to the church contribute to the greater good of the world. The Engaging Donor and the Principled Donor look for outreach projects where they can be in touch with people. Rather than just give in monetary kind or tithes, they want the chance to serve in real, tangible ways.

Next time you plan an outreach fundraiser or program, consult your Engaging and Principled Donors and get their insights as well. They can be instrumental in leading larger groups, workshops, or events where there is a lot of social activity. Even if your events are online, they will benefit from being in touch with other human beings and connecting with both old and new acquaintances. Their confidence will be renewed, and you can expect more loyal members.

How DonorWerx Can Help

Your donors want to help you achieve your mission, so your first step as a leader is understanding their point of view. Mastering your donor experience starts with listening and learning what your donor cares about. Therefore, we created the Donor Personality Test. Check out our blog resources or schedule a Discovery Call to find out how DonorWerx can help you reach your mission goals.

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