Playing to Our Strengths

Being human, we tend to focus on our shortcomings. Finding fault is a common theme in many workplaces and personal lives. But does this attitude really benefit us? Not according to Tom Rath, the author of StrengthsFinder 2.0.

As a researcher with Gallup, Rath has been conducting strengths-based assessments for years, and his studies have shown remarkable results. As it turns out, the difference in performance between people who play to their strengths, and those who don’t, is astonishing. Those who are in the “strengths zone” (as he calls it), are six times more likely to be engaged at work. Imagine the productivity if everyone were working in their areas of strength!

To help people determine and work towards these particular assets, Rath and team developed the StrengthsFinder 2.0 test. This 35-minute test will tell you your top five personal strengths, what they mean, and how you can create action items to incorporate them into your daily life. (Note – you do have to purchase the book in order to take the test. The book gives you a personalized code to use online.)

I found that taking the test invigorated me, and shined a light on qualities I knew I had, but might not be utilizing as often as I should.

There are a total of 34 specific themes, which equals a whole lot of possible combinations when it comes to yourself, your colleagues, your bosses, and everyone else you surround yourself with. These strengths are also extremely significant when it comes to working together as a team.

All in all, I think playing to the strengths of each individual is a simple yet brilliant concept. No one can be all things to all people, and productivity and job satisfaction would be immeasurably higher if all individuals could play to their individual abilities. Have any of you taken the StrengthsFinder assessment? We’d love to hear your results & stories!

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