I’ve seen it time and again: teams that understand each other, from individual quirks to their greatest talents, are the ones that excel. When people truly know themselves and their teammates, something incredible happens—their work becomes more meaningful, collaboration is smoother, and challenges seem easier to tackle. So why does knowing yourself make such a big difference in a team?
We all have things we’re naturally good at, and when we tap into these talents, we’re more energized and productive. That’s why CliftonStrengths is such a powerful tool—it helps you discover your strengths, giving you the language and insight to understand what makes you tick.
In my coaching, I’ve seen teams transform simply by learning how their strengths complement each other. Imagine this: one person is fantastic at brainstorming big ideas, while another is skilled at organizing and executing those ideas. When they realize this, they can lean into their roles and rely on each other, which makes for an amazing partnership.
In fact, Gallup found that when employees use their strengths every day, they are six times more likely to be engaged at work. And we all know that engagement leads to better work, happier employees, and even more creativity ( Lutz Services).
Building Trust and Stronger Connections
When teams take the time to explore each other’s strengths, it’s not just about work; it’s about trust. Knowing that your teammate is great at making tough decisions or that they thrive in creative tasks means you can trust them to deliver. This trust builds stronger bonds and creates a supportive environment where everyone feels valued.
One of my favorite activities is having team members share their “strengths stories.” It’s such a simple, but powerful way for people to share a moment where they used one of their core strengths to overcome a challenge or achieve something they’re proud of. Hearing these stories not only helps the team understand each other better but also creates a sense of mutual respect.
Tackling Problems in the Strengths-Based Way
We all approach problems differently, and that’s a good thing! Teams that understand their collective strengths can approach challenges in a way that plays to everyone’s talents. Maybe one team member is great at looking at the big picture, while another excels at diving into the details. When you understand this, you can tackle problems more effectively because you’re leveraging the right strengths at the right time.
It’s not about avoiding conflict but about understanding that differences can actually be a team’s biggest asset. When we know what each person brings to the table, we can work through challenges with more empathy and understanding. This is the beauty of a strengths-based approach—teams learn to appreciate what makes each person unique rather than focusing on what might cause friction (TeamDynamics).
A More Engaged, Connected Team
At the end of the day, teams that know themselves are simply more engaged. And when people are engaged, they’re more productive, more innovative, and, let’s be honest, a lot more fun to work with.
So, how can you start? Whether it’s diving into CliftonStrengths assessments, setting up team workshops, or even just starting conversations about each other’s strengths, the key is to take the time to get to know your team. It’s one of the best investments you can make—and the results will speak for themselves.
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