StrengthsFinder assessment

- Have you ever noticed that there are things that you really like to do at work? I mean, things that just seem to come naturally for you and that aren't always so easy for other people? Well, Don Clifton researched this issue and identified 34 different themes that describe most people's personal styles. And he concluded that the key to being happy and successful at work is to find ways to build on your natural strengths. There are four main domains that are covered by Clifton, strategic thinking, relationship building, influencing, and executing. And within each of these domains, there are eight or nine specific strengths. So, within the executing domain, you might be particularly strong in achieving, arranging, focusing, et cetera. Knowing your strengths can also tell you a lot about your weaknesses or blind spots. For example, let's look at the achiever theme within the executing domain. Someone who's a strong achiever, will always be focused on being busy and getting things done. That's great! But they're also likely to have a constant feeling of discontent. They just always want to do more and they have a hard time settling down and being comfortable with the status quo. That can actually be a problem sometimes. Once you know your strengths, it becomes a lot easier to adapt your work and even your career to align with the things that you're good at and that you enjoy doing. And when you recognize your blind spots, you can find ways to compensate. As a project manager, you can use the CliftonStrengths to help your team members understand each other and work together more effectively. If you want a closer look at the CliftonStrengths, check out their website or pick up a copy of the book, Strengths Finder. It's a great way to get some new insights about yourself and about how to help your team members be more successful and more satisfied with their work.