Written by: Teresa Devine, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
In this article, we explore the value of building strengths-based teams and practical strategies for implementing this approach in your organization.
In today’s competitive business landscape, building and maintaining high-performing teams is essential for organizational success. One powerful approach to team development is the strengths-based approach, which focuses on leveraging the unique talents and abilities of each team member. As a certified Gallup Clifton strengths coach, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact that this method can have on teams.
The value of Gallup Clifton strengths
The Gallup Clifton Strengths assessment is a powerful tool for understanding individual strengths and talents. Based on decades of research, the assessment identifies an individual’s top strengths out of 34 themes which are grouped into four groups including: Executing, Influencing, Relationship Building, and Strategic Thinking. By identifying and understanding these strengths, individuals can better understand themselves and others, leading to improved teamwork and collaboration.
Gallup research has consistently shown that individuals who use their strengths are more engaged, productive, and successful. According to Gallup’s State of the American Workplace report, employees who use their strengths every day are six times more likely to be engaged in their work. Plus, teams that focus on strengths are 12.5% more productive.
Strategies for building strengths-based teams
Start with individual assessments: Begin by having each team member complete the Gallup Clifton Strengths assessment. This will provide valuable insights into each team member’s unique strengths and talents.
Facilitate strengths-based discussions: Hire a certified coach to host discussions about individual strengths and how to leverage them within the team. Encourage team members to share examples of how they have used their strengths to overcome challenges or achieve success.
Assign roles based on strengths: When assigning tasks, consider each team member’s strengths and assign roles that align with their natural abilities. Besides producing better results, this approach boosts team member engagement and overall satisfaction.
Encourage strengths-based collaboration: Encourage team members to collaborate and support each other based on their strengths. For example, if one team member excels in strategic thinking, they could take the lead on developing a project strategy, while another team member who excels in executing could take the lead on implementation.
Provide strengths-based coaching: Hire a certified Gallup Clifton strengths coach or train to become one to ensure the greatest success with coaching team members. When applied properly, expect increased confidence, motivation, and performance from your team.
In Conclusion
Building strengths-based teams is a powerful approach to team development that can lead to greater productivity, engagement, and team morale. By understanding and leveraging individual strengths, teams can achieve higher levels of success and performance while unlocking their full potential.
Teresa Devine, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Teresa Devine is a former Fortune 500 executive giving up her lucrative tech career to help Christians go deeper spiritually, heal past pain, and live vivaciously. During her career, the demands took over and life's priorities were upside down. God revealed how to prioritize Him first and her life transformed. Teresa shares proven methods to help align with God and unleash the incredible life He intended. Teresa is CEO of Teresa Devine Co. LLC, creator of 24/7 Purpose®️ Academy and MindTrap Method™️ advanced training. Her mission: Swap the daily grind for daily impact.
