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When your CliftonStrength Arranger gets in your way

3rd July 2024
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| Strengths
People sitting rou d a table with a man staning in the middle throwing papers in the air.

When your Arranger goes to the dark side

The CliftonStrengths framework identifies 34 distinct talent themes, each representing a specific way of thinking, feeling, and behaving. Among these, the Arranger® strength is characterized by the ability to organize and manage multiple variables to achieve success. Individuals with Arranger® are natural coordinators, adept at juggling numerous tasks and responsibilities. However, like all strengths, Arranger® has potential blind spots. In this blog, we’ll explore these blind spots and suggest complementary strengths that can help mitigate them. Knowing how your Arranger works for you means you can notice when it gets ‘stretched’ and can impact on your wellbeing.

And for ideas how your Arrnager might come across to others, and what you can do about it, read our whitepaper on conflict and communication, it contains a table of all 34 CliftonStrengths.

Understanding Arranger® as a strength

Individuals with the Arranger® strength thrive in dynamic environments. They are at their best when managing complex scenarios, finding the most efficient configurations of people and resources to achieve a goal. They are flexible, adaptable, and thrive on figuring out how all the pieces and resources can be arranged for maximum productivity.

Common blind spots of Arranger®

  1. Over-control and micromanagement

With Arranger® dominant, people often believe they can manage everything better than anyone else. This can lead to micromanagement tendencies, which can stifle team members’ creativity and autonomy. The need to oversee every detail can create bottlenecks and delay decision-making processes. Friction and frustration are common outcomes when two or more Arrangers® are on the same project.

  1. Risk of overwhelm and burnout

The desire of Arranger® to handle multiple tasks simultaneously can lead to taking on too much. This overcommitment can result in stress, burnout, and a decrease in overall effectiveness. The constant juggling can become overwhelming, especially when unforeseen challenges arise.

  1. Inflexibility under pressure

Although your Arranger® theme inherently makes you generally flexible, it can make you less accommodating under pressure. When your carefully organized plans are disrupted, you may become frustrated and struggle to adapt, potentially leading to wasted energy and decreased performance.

  1. Neglecting long-term planning

Knowing that you are inherently truly competent at managing immediate needs and short-term goals, means you may sometimes neglect long-term planning. Your intense focus on the present causes you to overlook future implications, which can be detrimental in strategic contexts.

 

Strengths to partner with Arranger®

To mitigate these blind spots, finding a partner with other high ranking themes – or complementary strengths – can help you create a more balanced and effective approach. Here are some suggestions that can help you catch your blind spots before they cause too much trouble for you!

  • Strategic®

Individuals with the Strategic strength are adept at seeing patterns and anticipating future scenarios. They excel at long-term planning and can help your Arranger® maintain a broader perspective. Collaborating with Strategic,  ensures that your immediate plans align with long-term goals, reducing the risk of missing important future implications.

  • Analytical®

A colleague or partner with Analytical® dominant in their profile brings a deep understanding and joy of data to our projects and the ability to break down complex information into manageable parts. Partnering with Analytical individuals can help you make more informed decisions, preventing you from overcommitting or missing critical details. Your Analytical partner(s) can provide a reality check, feedback and also ask you what might at first appear to be challenging questions, be brave, their involvement means your plans are feasible and grounded in data.

  • Adaptability®

While your Arranger® talent means you are inherently flexible, if things get challenging, under stress, partnering with someone who has the Adaptability® strength can help maintain a calm and flexible approach in the face of disruption. Their calm approach thrives in times of chaos and stress and can provide a calm vibe and can help you navigate unexpected changes smoothly.

  • Communication®

Working on complex plans you will find a Communication® partner is valuable, bringing clarity and understanding among team members. Articulating your plans effectively, reduces the risk of being over controlling and micromanagement. Clear communication fosters trust and autonomy within the team, allowing your Arranger® to focus on coordination rather than control.

  • Focus®

Individuals with the Focus® strength have a strong ability to concentrate on goals and prioritize tasks. They can help you maintain direction and avoid becoming overwhelmed by too many simultaneous tasks. By keeping the team aligned on the most critical objectives, your Focus® partner can prevent you being stretched across too many tasks.

Practical action

  1. Delegate effectively

Leveraging the strengths of the whole team by sharing the work out that that aligns with their talents shows trust. Trusting others to handle specific responsibilities again reduces the tendency your Arranger® gives you to micromanage and lets your free up your time for higher-level coordination.

  1. Set boundaries and prioritize

Your Focus® partners are vital to help set clear priorities and boundaries. Identify the most critical tasks and allocate time accordingly. This collaboration helps avoid overcommitment and means you maintain a manageable workload.

  1. Engage in strategic planning and deep listening

Regularly checking in with your colleagues and particularly engaging with Strategic partners means you review long-term goals and align short-term plans with these objectives. Incorporate strategic thinking into the planning process to ensure a balanced approach that considers both immediate needs and future implications.

  1. Foster and engage in open communication

Encourage, and participate in, open communication within your team. Work with Communication partners to establish clear channels for feedback and discussion. This openness can prevent misunderstandings and create a more collaborative and autonomous work environment.

  1. Embrace flexibility

Recognize that plans may need to change and be open to input from all team members. Embrace a mindset that values flexibility and resilience, especially when faced with unexpected challenges. And be aware especially if someone else in your team has a high Arranger® strength.

6. Notice how your Arranger affects your mood

Staying on top of one of your best themes means you can manage your wellbeng better. Read this blog from Gallup. 

Conclusion

Your Arranger® strength is a powerful asset in any team. Your innate talent gives you capacity to manage complexity and drive efficient outcomes and amazes others. However, awareness of its blind spots and building strategic partnerships with complementary strengths can enhance its effectiveness. And maintain team sanity. By collaborating with individuals who possess Strategic, Analytical, Adaptability, Communication, or Focus strengths, mitigates negative impacts of the blind spots and creates a more balanced, productive, and resilient team dynamic. Embracing these partnerships and leveraging diverse strengths can lead to greater success and fulfillment in both personal and professional endeavours. Above all, take note of how yo come across, check in with your colleagues (or family) and invite them to sape the plans.

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Common blind spots with Analytical®

22nd May 2024
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| Strengths
Image of 3 large blue question marks and title Blindpsot Analytical blog

Common blind spots with CliftonStrength Analytical

This blogpost explores the common blndspots that occur when your ClifotnStrength Analytical strengths is dominant, and offers strategies to help mitigate any possible problems this can cause.  The CliftonStrengths® assessment, developed by Gallup, identifies 34 distinct talent themes that individuals naturally exhibit. Among these, the Analytical® theme is highly valued for its ability to think critically, dissect complex problems, and make data-driven decisions. You will notice if a friend or colleague has Analytical® because they will be a source of many questions. However, like all strengths, Analytical® has its blind spots that can hinder both personal and professional growth if not managed effectively. This blog explores the potential blind spots of the Analytical® strength and offers strategies to mitigate them.

Of course, it can be easy to upset others with high Analytical® if you fail to realise this is a leading strength for them, by demanding further detail and data from them! Why do you think this is?

Individuals with a dominant Analytical® theme excel in understanding the reasons and causes behind situations. They enjoy data and facts, seeking patterns and correlations to make informed decisions. Their approach is methodical, objective, and logical, often leading to well-thought-out conclusions and solutions. However, this focus on analysis can sometimes lead to challenges, especially when interpersonal dynamics and emotional intelligence are required.ClifotnStrength 

Analytical highlights (1)

The Analytical® strength, with its emphasis on data and logic, is invaluable in many contexts.  Awareness of the potential blind spots it brings you is crucial for maximizing your effectiveness. Developing a keener awareness of how others might receive your questions and demand for data, balancing detailed analysis with timely decision-making, embracing open-mindedness, maintaining a big-picture perspective, and simplifying communication, can enhance your contributions. Leveraging complementary strengths within a team can also ensure you bring a more inclusive approach to problem-solving and decision-making. Some suggestions are incorporated below.

Of course, it can be easy to upset others with high Analytical® if you fail to realise this is a leading strength for them, by demanding further detail and data from them! Why do you think this is?

 

Common blindsopts for people with a dominant Analytical® strength

I

Blind Spot 1: Overemphasis on data

Description: Analytical® individuals may prioritize data and factual information over intuition and emotional considerations. This can lead to decisions that, while logically sound, might lack sensitivity to the human element involved.

Example: In a team meeting, you might present a compelling argument based on data but overlook team members’ concerns or feelings about the proposed solution. This drive might mean you barely pause to listen or let others process the answer. Your certainty of the facts might also silence some.

Mitigation strategies:

  1. Incorporate emotional intelligence: Develop an awareness of others’ emotions and perspectives. This can be achieved through active listening and empathy, ensuring that decisions are both data-driven and considerate of team dynamics.
  2. Seek diverse input: Balance data analysis with input from colleagues who have strong relationship-building strengths. This can provide a more holistic view of the situation and lead to more inclusive decision-making.

Blind Spot 2: Paralysis by analysis

Description: The desire to thoroughly analyse every detail can result in decision-making delays, sometimes referred to as “paralysis by analysis.” This can be particularly problematic in fast-paced environments where timely decisions are crucial.

Example: An Analytical®-led manager might take too long to finalize a project plan because they are continually seeking additional data to validate their decisions.

Mitigation strategies:

  1. Set deadlines: Establish clear deadlines for decision-making to ensure that analysis does not become an endless process.
  2. Prioritize information: Focus on the most critical data points and learn to make decisions with incomplete information when necessary. Recognize that not every decision requires exhaustive analysis.

Blind Spot 3: Scepticism and cynicism

Description: Analytical®-led individuals often have a natural scepticism, questioning assumptions and seeking evidence. While this can lead to robust conclusions, it can also come across as cynicism, potentially demotivating team members or causing friction.

Example: During a brainstorming session, an Analytical®-led person might dismiss creative ideas too quickly if they don’t see immediate data to support them, stifling innovation.

Mitigation strategies:

  1. Embrace open-mindedness: Practice maintaining an open mind, especially during the early stages of idea generation. Encourage a culture of innovation by temporarily setting aside the need for immediate data validation. Look for ways to build a growth mindset.
  2. Build trust: Cultivate strong relationships with team members to ensure that scepticism is seen as a constructive part of the process rather than a barrier to creativity. Look to the Johari Window model.

Blind Spot 4: Overlooking big picture

Description: The focus on details and data can sometimes lead Analytical®-led individuals to miss the broader context or the long-term vision. They may get so engrossed in the minutiae that they lose sight of overarching goals and strategies.

Example: An Analytical® team member might perfect a specific process but fail to align it with the company’s strategic objectives, leading to inefficiencies in the larger scheme.

Mitigation strategies:

  1. Strategic partnerships: Collaborate with individuals who have a strong Strategic® or Futuristic® theme. They can help maintain focus on the big picture and ensure that detailed analysis supports broader goals.
  2. Regular reflection: Periodically step back to review how detailed tasks fit into the overall strategy. This can be facilitated through regular team meetings or personal reflection sessions.

Blind Spot 5: Communication® challenges

Description: Analytical®-led individuals often use technical language and detailed explanations, which can be overwhelming or confusing to those who prefer more straightforward communication.

Example: In a presentation, you might delve deeply into data specifics, losing the audience who may not be as data-savvy.

Mitigation strategies:

  1. Simplify communication: Learn to tailor messages to the audience. Use clear, concise language and highlight key points without overloading on data.
  2. Storytelling: Incorporate storytelling techniques to make data more relatable and engaging. This can help convey the significance of the information in a more accessible manner.

Ideas of other CliftonStrengths to partner with

The Analytical® strength brings a powerful ability to delve into data, discern patterns, and draw logical conclusions. To balance its potential blind spots and enhance overall effectiveness, partnering with complementary CliftonStrengths can create a more sensitive and balanced approach. Here are some strengths that pair well with Analytical®, along with how they can mitigate its blind spots:

1. Empathy®

Why it works: Empathy® brings the ability to sense the feelings and perspectives of others. This strength can help Analytical® individuals become more attuned to the human elements that data alone might miss.

Benefits:

  • Enhances your emotional intelligence, helping to balance data-driven decisions with sensitivity to team members’ emotions.
  • Fosters stronger interpersonal relationships, making it easier to build consensus and collaboration.

Example: During a project review, an Empathy® partner can highlight team concerns and emotional responses, ensuring that decisions consider both data and human impact.

 

2. Communication®

Why it works: Communication® is about expressing ideas clearly and effectively. It helps your Analytical® strengths in translating complex data into understandable and engaging narratives.

Benefits:

  • Simplifies technical language and data-heavy explanations, making information more accessible to a wider audience.
  • Enhances storytelling, making data insights more compelling and relatable.

Example: In a presentation, a Communication® partner can help distil intricate data points into key messages that resonate with non-technical stakeholders.

 

3. Strategic®

Why it works: Strategic® involves seeing patterns where others see complexity. Often simplifying things (and often doing this to too great an extent! Everything has blind spots!) This strength helps the Analytical-led person in envisioning long-term goals and aligning detailed analysis with broader objectives.

Benefits:

  • Maintains focus on the big picture, ensuring that detailed Analytical® work supports overarching strategies.
  • Provides direction, helping to prioritize data analysis efforts based on long-term goals.

Example: When planning a new initiative, a Strategic® partner can outline the vision and ensure that Analytical® insights are aligned with future aspirations.

 

4. Activator®

Why it works: Activator® as a strength is about turning thoughts into action. It helps counter the paralysis by analysis that Analytical® individuals might experience.

Benefits:

  • Encourages timely decision-making, ensuring that analysis leads to actionable outcomes.
  • Drives momentum, helping teams move forward without getting bogged down in excessive data scrutiny.

Example: During project planning, an Activator® partner can set clear deadlines for decision-making, ensuring that Analytical® insights lead to prompt actions.

5. Harmony®

Why it works: Harmony® seeks consensus and cooperation. This strength can help navigate the scepticism that Analytical® individuals might exhibit.

Benefits:

  • Fosters a collaborative environment, reducing friction caused by scepticism or data-driven critiques.
  • Balances Analytical® rigor with the need for team cohesion and agreement.

Example: In team discussions, a Harmony® partner can mediate between different viewpoints, ensuring that Analytical® critiques are constructive and lead to consensus.

6. Positivity®

Why it works: Positivity® brings enthusiasm and optimism. It helps mitigate the potential cynicism that can accompany a strong Analytical® approach.

Benefits:

  • Infuses a positive outlook, encouraging a balanced view that considers both data and potential.
  • Motivates teams, balancing Analytical® scrutiny with encouragement and support.

Example: In brainstorming sessions, a Positivity® partner can highlight the potential and opportunities in new ideas, ensuring that Analytical® scepticism doesn’t dampen innovation.

7. Adaptability®

Why it works: Adaptability® is about staying flexible and responding well to change. This strength helps Analytical® individuals remain agile in dynamic environments.

Benefits:

  • Promotes flexibility, ensuring that data analysis adapts to changing circumstances and new information.
  • Encourages a responsive approach, balancing thorough analysis with the ability to pivot as needed.

Example: During project implementation, an Adaptability® partner can help navigate unexpected changes, ensuring that Analytical® plans remain relevant and effective.

 

Conclusion

Analytical® creates blind spots for those with it high in their profile. These can hinder both personal and professional growth if not managed. In the first part we’ve explored 5 common blind spots, what this looks like, as well as offering two mitigation strategies for each blind spot. Partnering your Analytical® with other CliftonStrengths can enhance both individual and team performance. Indeed you may have one of these at the op of your profile. If so, intentional consideration of your thoughts and (in)actions strength-by-strength might support you in navigating your way forward.

We’ve explored Empathy®, Communication®, Strategic®, Activator®, Harmony®, Positivity®, and Adaptability®.  Each of these bring unique benefits that address potential blind spots of Analytical®. By fostering collaboration with those who possess these strengths, can help you achieve a more balanced, effective, and holistic approach to problem-solving and decision-making. This synergy not only maximizes the potential of your Analytical® strength but also creates a more cohesive and dynamic working environment.

 

Why not visit our Powerful Strengths Facebook group and share how you leverage your Analytical® and keep it in a productive phase?

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Exploring the blindspots of CliftonStrength Adaptabiity

28th March 2024
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| Strengths, Tips & Advice
a white jigsaw puzzle with two pieces in yellow with process and procedufre wrtten on tehm.
Do you have a name for that innate part of your character that enables you to live in the moment, respond to change, or simply be there for your friends when they need you? Have you ever thought about what frustrates you? And how can you take ownership of this and leverage to be your best?
 

Introduction

CliftonStrengths is a powerful tool for individuals seeking to understand and leverage their unique talents. Adaptability®, one of the 34 strengths identified by the Gallup organization, brings numerous positive characteristics to the table. These ‘live in the moment’ traits are vital in an ever changing world. It also comes with its own set of blindspots that individuals must navigate to maximize its potential.

 

Understanding Adaptability®

Adaptability® is characterized by a flexible mindset and the ability to thrive in dynamic environments. Individuals strong in Adaptability® excel at adjusting to unforeseen circumstances, embracing change, and improvising when faced with challenges. They are often seen as calm under pressure and adept at navigating uncertainty. However, like any strength, Adaptability® has its limitations, which can hinder personal and professional growth if left unaddressed.

How may others perceive you?

Flexible and adaptive: Others may see you as someone who easily adapts to changes in plans, priorities, or circumstances. They may admire your ability to remain calm and composed, even in the face of uncertainty or unexpected challenges. 

Resourceful problem-solver: Your adaptability may be viewed as a valuable asset in problem-solving situations. Others may appreciate your creative approach to finding solutions and your willingness to explore alternative paths or perspectives.

Open-minded and willing to learn: Your openness to new ideas and experiences may be evident to others. They may see you as someone who embraces learning opportunities and is receptive to feedback, suggestions, and diverse viewpoints.

Team player: Your adaptability can contribute to a positive team dynamic by fostering collaboration and cooperation. Others may perceive you as someone who is easy to work with, adaptable to different working styles, and willing to pitch in wherever needed.

Effective in change management: In organizational settings, your adaptability may be recognized as a valuable asset in navigating change. Others may look to you for guidance or support during transitions, knowing that you can help them navigate uncertainty and embrace new ways of working.

Resilient and versatile: Your ability to bounce back from setbacks and adjust to new circumstances may be seen as a sign of resilience. Others may admire your versatility and your capacity to thrive in diverse environments or situations.

Balanced approach: While adaptability is your strength, others may also appreciate your ability to maintain a balance between flexibility and stability. They may see you as someone who knows when to adapt and when to hold firm, depending on the context or the importance of the situation.

If you have an upcoming review, new role, or job to apply for,

consider how you can demonstrate these characteristics from your past experiences.

 

Adapability’s blindspots

blindspots

 

Blindspot 1: Resistance to structure

One common blindspot associated with Adaptability® is a resistance to structure. While being flexible and spontaneous is a strength, individuals with high Adaptability® may struggle in highly structured environments where routines and predictability are valued. They may find it challenging to adhere to strict deadlines (not set by themselves!) or follow predefined processes, which can lead to inefficiencies and missed opportunities for growth.

Blindspot 2: Difficulty with long-term planning

With Adaptability® you may find you have a tendency to focus on short-term solutions rather than long-term planning. While being agile and responsive to immediate needs is valuable, it’s essential to maintain a strategic outlook and consider the long-term implications of decisions and actions. This struggle with prioritization of long-term goals or difficulty with uncertainty, can feel like a lack of direction or purpose to others.

Blindspot 3: Overlooking personal boundaries

Another blindspot associated with Adaptability® is the tendency to overlook personal boundaries in favour of accommodating others’ needs or expectations. It’s likely you may prioritize harmony and flexibility in relationships, sometimes at the expense of your own well-being or values. Depending on your other top CliftonStrengths, you may struggle to assert yourself, or establish clear boundaries, and this may lead to feelings of resentment or burnout over time.

Navigating your blindspots

 

1 Establish clear priorities and boundaries:

Ø  Define your values: Take the time to identify your core values, priorities, and long-term goals. Understanding what matters most to you provides a foundation for making decisions aligned with your values and aspirations.

Ø  Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries to protect your time, energy, and well-being. Don’t be afraid to be clear about, and communicate your boundaries assertively and respectfully, in both personal and professional settings. Recognize that saying “no” when necessary is essential for maintaining balance and preventing burnout.

2 Develop strategic planning skills:

Ø  Balance flexibility with structure: Embrace a strategic approach that combines adaptability with long-term planning. Dedicating time to set achievable goals, identify potential obstacles, and develop actionable plans, using your CliftonStrengths, a strengths goal setting worksheet, and also habit stacking (Read Atomic Habits) to build new habits. Strive to strike a balance between being responsive to immediate needs and maintaining focus on your own overarching objectives.

Ø  Anticipate change: Cultivate a proactive mindset by anticipating potential changes and preparing contingency plans. Stay informed about industry trends, market shifts, and emerging opportunities to adapt swiftly and capitalize on new possibilities.

3 Get to know who you are:

Ø  Reflect regularly: Take time for self-reflection (look up the Gibbs self-reflection model) to gain insight into your patterns of behaviour, responses to change, and areas for growth. Reflecting on past experiences can help you identify recurring blindspots and develop strategies to address them effectively.

Ø  Practice mindfulness: Cultivate mindfulness practices to stay present and grounded amidst uncertainty. Mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and journaling can help you manage stress, enhance self-awareness, and make conscious choices aligned with your values and goals. Whether these practices work for you will depend to some extent on your other Strengths and mindset.

Ø  Learn to be more curious: Develop empathy and emotional intelligence to understand the perspectives and needs of those around you. Strengthening your interpersonal skills allows you to navigate diverse personalities, collaborate effectively, and build mutually supportive relationships.

By implementing these strategies, you can begin to be more aware of your blindspots, notice when they pop up and interfere with your productivity and happiness.

a white jigsaw puzzle with two pieces in yellow with process and procedufre wrtten on them. 

Summary actions

These strategies are essential tools for leveraging Adaptability® effectively and achieving sustainable success in a rapidly changing world. The end result is to benefit from establishing a balance between flexibility and structure.

Additionally, seeking feedback from others who excel in structured environments can help identify areas for improvement and provide valuable insights into effective strategies for navigating them.

Setting aside regular intervals to reflect on overarching goals, identify potential obstacles, and develop actionable plans can help maintain focus and direction amidst uncertainty. Collaborating with others who excel in strategic planning can also provide valuable perspective and support in navigating long-term challenges.

Finally, developing your self-awareness perhaps through using the Johari window, alongside taking time to identify your personal values, priorities, and boundaries can provide clarity and confidence in asserting yourself in various situations.


Finding other strengths to partner with

Strategic®: find a partner with a natural ability to anticipate future trends, identify patterns, and develop long-term plans. Partnering with someone strong in Strategic® can provide you with valuable insights and direction, helping you channel your adaptability towards achieving strategic goals more effectively.

Positivity®: Positivity® brings optimism, enthusiasm, and resilience to challenging situations. Collaborating with individuals strong in Positivity® can uplift your spirits during times of change and uncertainty, fostering a more positive and supportive work environment.

Achiever®: identify a partner who thrives on setting and accomplishing goals. Pairing your Adaptability® with the drive and determination of someone strong in Achiever® can help you stay focused and motivated, ensuring that you translate your Adaptability® into tangible results and accomplishments.

Communication®: Strong communication skills are essential for conveying ideas, building relationships, and navigating change effectively. Partnering with individuals strong in Communication® can enhance your ability to articulate your thoughts, influence others, and foster collaboration amidst uncertainty.

Analytical®: finding a partner who excels at gathering and interpreting data to make informed decisions gives you facts and evidence. Collaborating with someone strong in Analytical® can provide you with valuable insights and evidence-based reasoning to support your adaptable approach, ensuring that your decisions are well-informed and grounded in data.

Learner®: Learners have a thirst for knowledge and continuous growth. Partnering with individuals strong in Learner® can inspire you to embrace change as an opportunity for personal and professional development, encouraging you to adapt and evolve in response to new challenges and opportunities.

Empathy®: Empathy® fosters understanding, compassion, and connection with others. Cultivating empathy can enhance your interpersonal skills, enabling you to navigate change with sensitivity and consideration for the needs and feelings of those around you.

Arranger®: Arrangers excel at orchestrating complex tasks and resources to achieve desired outcomes. Collaborating with individuals strong in Arranger® can help you manage change more effectively by organizing resources, delegating responsibilities, and adapting plans as needed to navigate unforeseen challenges.


And finally

Overall, how others see your Adaptability® strength will likely be influenced by their own perspectives, experiences, and interactions with you. Your deepened awareness of  how Adaptability both helps and hinders you means you are more in control of influencing how others perceive and appreciate your contribution through this valuable strength.

Revisit your CliftonStrengths Top 5 (go to www.gallup.access.com/access and login in) . The new report launched in 2024 helps you think through how your top strengths influence each other. 


DISCLAIMER

Adaptabiity® is a registered mark of Gallup. This link takes you to a series of podcasts on the theme. 

The views, interpretations, and thoughts expressed in this article are solely those of the author.

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Navigating Strengths: Unveiling Blindspots in CliftonStrengths, exploring Activator

27th February 2024
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| Strengths, Tips & Advice
An orange and turquoise swing seats. with text - to help out the Activator Talent

Introduction

In the world of personal development and self-discovery, the CliftonStrengths assessment has become a powerful tool for individuals seeking to understand and leverage their unique talents. Activator, one of the 34 strengths identified by the Gallup organization, is characterized by a keen ability to turn thoughts into action. However, like any strength, Activator® comes with its own set of blindspots that individuals should be aware of to maximize its benefits.

With Activator® at Number 4, I am only too aware of times when it has not served me well. 

Understanding Activator

Before delving into the blindspots, let’s first explore what Activator® brings to the table. Individuals with high Activator® often possess a natural inclination to initiate, propel ideas into motion, and catalyze change. They thrive in environments where quick decisions and immediate action are required. Activators® are the driving force behind many successful projects, as they are adept at pushing through inertia and transforming ideas into reality.

 

Activator’s Blindspots

blindspots

Blindspot 1: Impulsivity Over Deliberation

While the ability to act swiftly is a valuable trait, Activators® may fall prey to their impulsivity. The eagerness to jump into action without thorough consideration can lead to hasty decisions that may not be well thought out. It’s crucial for individuals with high Activator® to recognize the importance of balance, ensuring that they allow adequate time for careful deliberation, especially in situations where a more measured approach is required.

Blindspot 2: Insensitivity to Others’ Pacing

The sense of urgency and desire for immediate action that comes with Activator® can inadvertently overshadow the pacing preferences of others. Colleagues or team members who value a more deliberate and contemplative approach may feel overwhelmed or dismissed by the Activator’s rapid pace. It’s essential for individuals with Activator® to cultivate an awareness of varying work styles and learn to adapt their pace to accommodate collaborative efforts.

Blindspot 3: Neglecting Long-Term Strategy

Activators® excel in initiating tasks and projects, but their blindspot may lie in neglecting the long-term strategic perspective. The focus on immediate action may lead to a lack of planning for sustained success. To overcome this blindspot, Activators® should consciously set aside time for strategic thinking and consider the broader implications of their actions on future endeavours.

Blindspot 4: Burnout Due to Continuous Action

The perpetual need for action can lead Activators® down a path of constant busyness, potentially resulting in burnout. It’s essential for individuals with high Activator® to recognize the importance of self-care and balance their intense drive with periods of rest and rejuvenation. Incorporating moments of reflection and relaxation into their routines can help prevent burnout and ensure long-term well-being. From a recent workshop discussion, I was sharing a story about my new garden swing seat and how I’ve discovered that the motion of the swing stills my brain. There were 3 other high Activator® people present and they laughed loudly, sharing their same experience!

Blindspot 5: Resistance to Change

Paradoxically, Activators, despite being catalysts for change, may develop a blindspot when it comes to adapting to change themselves. The constant need for action can create resistance to altering their own established routines or processes. To overcome this blindspot, Activators® should actively embrace change and view it as an opportunity for growth rather than a disruption to their preferred pace.

Navigating your blindspots

 
An orange and turquoise swing seats. with text - to help out the Activator Talent

Navigating the blindspots associated with Activator® requires a thoughtful and intentional approach. Here are three key strategies to help you navigate your Activator® blindspots effectively:

1.    Cultivate Mindful Decision-Making:

Pause and Reflect: Recognize the value of taking a moment to pause and reflect before jumping into action. Embrace a conscious decision-making process that involves considering the potential consequences and implications of your actions. This practice allows you to harness the power of Activator® while avoiding impulsive decisions that may lead to unintended outcomes.

Consult Others: Seek input from colleagues, friends, or mentors before making significant decisions. This collaborative approach not only provides diverse perspectives but also ensures that you take into account the preferences and concerns of others. By involving others in the decision-making process, you mitigate the risk of overlooking crucial details and enhance the overall quality of your choices.

2.    Embrace Strategic Planning:

Allocate Time for Strategy: Intentionally set aside dedicated time for strategic thinking and planning. Create a balance between your natural inclination for immediate action and the long-term vision of your goals. Establish a routine that includes regular moments for evaluating the broader implications of your actions, identifying potential challenges, and crafting strategic plans to navigate them effectively.

Prioritize and Sequence Tasks: Recognize that not every task requires immediate attention. Develop the ability to prioritize tasks based on their significance and urgency. By sequencing your actions strategically, you ensure that your energy is directed towards tasks that align with your long-term objectives, reducing the likelihood of burnout and enhancing overall productivity.

3.    Build Adaptive Communication Skills:

Understand Others’ Pacing: Develop a heightened awareness of the varied work styles and pacing preferences of your team members or collaborators. Tailor your communication and approach to accommodate different perspectives. This adaptability fosters a more inclusive and harmonious working environment, preventing potential tension caused by an overly assertive or rapid approach.

Communicate Change Effectively: Actively work on embracing change and communicate your enthusiasm for it. Clearly articulate the benefits of the proposed changes and address concerns that others may have. This proactive communication style helps build trust and collaboration, mitigating resistance to change and ensuring a smoother transition for everyone involved.

By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine and mindset, you can navigate the blindspots associated with Activator® more effectively. Cultivating mindfulness, embracing strategic planning, and developing adaptive communication skills will not only enhance the positive impact of your Activator® strength but also contribute to your overall success and well-being.

Conclusion

Activator® is a powerful strength that propels individuals into action and drives results. However, like all strengths, it comes with its own set of blindspots that individuals must navigate to harness its full potential. By cultivating self-awareness, embracing balance, and recognizing the impact of their actions on both themselves and others, individuals with high Activator® can transform their blindspots into opportunities for continued growth and success in their personal and professional lives.

And finally, revisit your CliftonStrengths Top 5 (go to www.gallup.access.com/access and login in) . The new report launched in 2024 helps you think through how your top strengths influence each other. 

 

 

DISCLAIMER

Activator® is a registered mark of Gallup. This link takes you to a series of podcasts on the theme. 

The views, interpretations, and thoughts expressed in this article are solely those of the author.

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How can your team perform better?

29th May 2023
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| Tips & Advice
High perforning team. images illustrating communication, shared goals and trust

Three areas and one tool to focus on

What is a high performing team?

A high-performing team (HPT) is often described as a group of individuals who work together efficiently, effectively, and cohesively, towards a common goal. This type of team is characterized by mutual respect, trust, and an unwavering commitment to success.

While research shows that a team with a diversity of thought leads to greater innovation and creativity, it can also raise conflict and friction. I wanted to dive into this a bit deeper and explore the characteristics of high-performing teams and how they can be cultivated.

While much has been written, it seems there are three core areas to focus attention on to raise performance: clear communication, shared vision and alignment around goals, and trust.

1. Clear Communication

High performing teams are made up of individuals able to communicate clearly and effectively with one another. They listen actively, ask questions, and provide constructive feedback. As a team lead you could start by establishing (and role modelling) clear communication norms and protocols within the team, so team members are able to communicate their thoughts and ideas in a safe and supportive environment. To work this needs self-awareness as well as an awareness of others.  A two-pronged approach, we use CliftonStrengths, and explore cultural awareness using a cultural orientation framework, (see The Culture Map by Erin Meyer, or Coaching Across Cultures: New Tools for Leveraging National, Corporate and Professional Differences by Phillipe Rosinski) being careful to flag up the dangers of cultural stereotyping.

Central to communication are mature listening skills. And tuning into your own internal Listening Villain, and your own need for detail, and whether you like to think aloud or quietly for example, can affect how you are perceived and come across within your team. For example, some people learn by asking questions and it is their capacity to formulate questions to gather and process information that is their greatest strength. Yet in some places, this can be perceived as the questioner not understanding the issue at hand. In some cultures, students grow up having been taught not to challenge, or question, someone in a more senior position.  And so may remain silent when they don’t understand. Another’s silence might be because they are in deep reflection, examining contributions from others in minute detail. But this might be perceived as being disinterested in the problem, or even not understanding. When the fact is, they are totally engaged and absorbed.

Growing a team that can use coaching style questions, and develop a coaching habit, can facilitate deeper listening. And oftentimes, that means simply being quiet yourself.

2. Trust

Trust is the bedrock of any high performing team. Without trust, individuals are unable to work together effectively, take risks, or innovate. Trust is built over time through consistent behaviours and actions. Leaders can foster trust by creating a psychologically safe space and mutual understanding of what each person brings, but also needs to be their best. Much is written about trust and leadership (see Gallup’s Strengths-based leadership). One of the frameworks we like, and use is Lencioni who expressed trust in the form of this equation:

Trustworthiness = (Credibility + Reliability + Intimacy) ÷ Self-Orientation.

Credibility is related to what people say: the extent to which they demonstrate knowledge and understanding about their subject, speak with conviction and make us feel confident that they are in command of their subject matter and competent in applying their expertise.

Reliability is related to what people do: the extent to which they follow through on promises, meet deadlines, deliver against targets, achieve agreed quality standards and go the extra mile to ensure that they have completed their undertakings.

Intimacy is related to the safety and security we feel in a relationship: the extent to which confidentiality is maintained, the confidence we have in opening up more personal aspects of ourselves and our emotional concerns and the belief that our values will be respected.

These are explained as additive factors, that can all be torpedoed by the denominator, Self-orientation.

Self-orientation refers to a person’s focus. In particular, whether the other person’s focus is primarily on themselves or others. 

Facilitated discussions – either face to face or online – can help teams come to understand each others’ orientations and be aware of what is driving apparent self-interest. Again, CliftonStrengths can help with this dialogue.

 

“Trust is the bedrock of any high performing team. Without trust, individuals are unable to work together effectively, take risks, or innovate.” – Lencioni

3. Shared Vision and alignment around shared Goals

High performing teams are characterized by a shared sense of purpose. Each person on the team understands how their role contributes to the broader mission. Clarity around goals and objectives, and personal alignment with these goals helps create a sense of accountability and motivation to achieve success as a team. Having space, and a language, that enables each person to interrogate the vison and goals from their own perspective adds creativity and deepens the understanding of how they can contribute to meeting the goal.

Again, CliftonStrengths, a deep understanding of all the 34 themes, helps us appreciate how we each need the others to meet these shared goals. Equally, knowing areas of the team where there may be gaps, helps focus attention on possible blind spots.

“High-performing teams are made up of individuals who are not just committed to their own success, but to the success of their teammates as well.”

– Simon Sinek

CliftonStrengths - the number one tool to choose?

So where to start? We always start with Clifton Strengths. One of the challenges all teams face is people’s past experiences where blame and suspicion, perhaps with justification, have been the default positions for many who feel let down by organisations and people in whom they have invested their trust. For some people once trust is violated it can never be reinstated. While for others, understanding more about the incident that broke our trust or caused hurt. can help heal burning resentment and fury. Using CliftonStrengths alongside other tools and insights gained through facilitated deeper discussions and analysis promotesbetter conversations that helps grow personal alignment to goals and deepening trust.

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Strengths based teams

12th April 2023
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strengths based teams

In today’s workplace, collaboration is more important than ever. Companies and organizations rely on teams to accomplish goals, solve problems, and innovate. While many still use Tuckman’s ‘form, norm, storm, and perform’ to describe the stages of team formation, others have added ‘reform’. Not…

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