Our entire Comm/Web/IT team recently retook the StengthsFinder test, this time using the new 2.0 version. (my prior results) This is a very valuable tool that I’d encourage everyone to use…especially among your teams. In fact it’s part of my hiring process … that’s how much weight I give it.
The Clifton StrengthsFinder measures the presence of talent in 34 categories called "themes." These themes were determined by Gallup as those that most consistently predict outstanding performance. The greater the presence of a theme of talent within a person, the more likely that person is to spontaneously exhibit those talents in day-to-day behaviors.Focusing on naturally powerful talents helps people use them as the foundation of strengths and enjoy personal, academic, and career success through consistent, near-perfect performance.
Below are my top five themes of talent, ranked in the order revealed by my responses to the Clifton StrengthsFinder.
How well do you think these themes describe me?
Analytical
People who are especially talented in the Analytical theme search for reasons and causes. They have the ability to think about all the factors that might affect a situation.
By nature, you can invent reasonably sequenced processes for performing various tasks. Having familiar patterns to follow makes it easier for everyone involved to handle recurring activities with ease and efficiency. You probably think favorably about individuals who rely on your processes day after day. People who say they cannot and will not use your system often irritate you. Chances are good that you generally rely on reason to determine how an event, decision, or condition led to an outcome. You usually desire to understand how things converge to produce the final result.
Deliberative
People who are especially talented in the Deliberative theme are best described by the serious care they take in making decisions or choices. They anticipate the obstacles.
Chances are good that you are likely to be the team member who is known for weighing the pros and cons rather than rushing recklessly to conclusions. You seldom make impulsive or rash decisions. Driven by your talents, you characteristically are quite reserved. You carefully consider just about everything you say and do. This explains to a large degree why you are happy to let someone else begin discussions. You prefer to listen to others talk.
Learner
People who are especially talented in the Learner theme have a great desire to learn and want to continuously improve. In particular, the process of learning, rather than the outcome, excites them.
By nature, you prefer to work in groups. You are attracted to teams whose activities and challenges intrigue you. You usually give these matters your undivided attention. Instinctively, you sometimes dedicate yourself to acquiring specific types of knowledge or using particular skills. Maybe you are self-taught. Maybe you work with an instructor, trainer, coach, or mentor. You might embrace opportunities to expose your mind to new ideas. You might welcome the chance to practice new ways of plying -- that is, diligently practicing – a trade or a craft. Driven by your talents, you occasionally dedicate yourself to acquiring certain kinds of knowledge or skills. You might devote many hours to mental labor. Because of your strengths, you have little difficulty giving intense effort to projects, problems, or opportunities that capture and keep your attention.
Harmony
People who are especially talented in the Harmony theme look for consensus. They don’t enjoy conflict; rather, they seek areas of agreement.
You are hardwired to meet others' high standards. This is how you avoid having conflicts and disagreements with people. Because of your strengths, you resist the temptation of presenting yourself as an expert on everything. Even though you have worked hard to master various topics, disciplines, and skills, you wait to be asked before sharing your knowledge. Usually you refer people to highly trained individuals when you cannot answer their questions. Your commitment to obtain the correct information and solutions overrides your desire to impress others. As a result, your reputation remains intact.
Relator
People who are especially talented in the Relator theme enjoy close relationships with others. They find deep satisfaction in working hard with friends to achieve a goal.
By nature, you are quite comfortable being honest about yourself with others. You harbor very few illusions about who you really are. Furthermore, you can openly acknowledge your mistakes and shortcomings. This is apt to distinguish you from most people. When you have nothing to do, typically you find something to do. Sitting around and wasting time does not suit you at all. It’s very likely that you offer guidance to friends who seek your assistance. While you enjoy being helpful, you probably avoid imposing your ideas on someone unless the person makes a special point of asking you to do so. Driven by your talents, you periodically consider skills you might upgrade to be a better trainer or coach. Perhaps you derive some satisfaction from helping individuals improve personally or professionally. Instinctively, you may be determined to share some of your knowledge, skills, or experiences with people. Perhaps you use this information as a coaching tool if you train someone.
To learn more about the Clifton StrengthsFinder and how you can discover your top five themes, visit http://strengths.gallup.com
3 of my 5 were unchanged … Analytical, Deliberative, Leaner … no surprises there. Harmony is new, but not a surprise after reading the full blown description. Relator was the biggest surprise. It certainly is me, but I would never have thought that was a strength. Hmm.
We have a big team meeting tomorrow to talk about our new results so I’m curious to learn how everyone else scored this time around. I’m also interested to dig into my “Personalized Ideas for Action Report” to get ideas on how to leverage these talent areas. Interesting stuff.
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