What is the CliftonStrengths Philosophy and How Can it Help Me?

The CliftonStrengths philosophy is all about discovering your natural areas of talent and learning how to use them well.  Instead of obsessing over who you think you “should” be, CliftonStrengths encourages you to focus on what you naturally do well and get enjoyment from doing, then find ways to leverage those strengths to your advantage.

What is Positive Psychology and the CliftonStrengths approach?

CliftonStrengths is built on Positive Psychology, the focus on what is right with people, rather than looking at each person as broken. This approach is not about trying to be good at everything. Instead of focusing on improving your weaknesses, the Strengths approach encourages you to invest in where you're already great. It's about embracing what makes you special and using those talents to achieve success, rather than trying to be good at everything, which can be overwhelming and is unrealistic.
 
The CliftonStrengths approach also shows how our biggest strengths can also become our greatest challenges. It's like a double-edged sword. For example, being really detail-oriented is great for accuracy, but it can also lead to perfectionism and stress. Similarly, strong leadership skills can inspire others, but if not balanced with humility and listening, other people’s voices may be shut out. Even creativity can cause trouble if we struggle with focus or following rules. The key is to be aware of these pitfalls alongside our celebration of how these natural talents can make us great.

How can CliftonStrengths help me find a job or or level up in my career?

For job seekers, CliftonStrengths can be a game-changer in their professional journey. It helps you understand what you're really good at and gives you language to talk with potential employers about why you're the best fit for a job. It also helps you figure out what kind of jobs and industries suit your natural talents, so you can find a career that feels rewarding. For example, those with the Ideation Strength may describe themselves as “inventive, innovative, and resourceful.” They may also recognize that they need to work in an environment that supports their creativity in order for them to feel satisfied.
 
For those looking to level up professionally, CliftonStrengths is like having a personal growth roadmap. It shows you what you're already great at, so you can keep getting better. It is also a tool to help you see how you might be overusing your Strengths to the point that you’re getting in your own way. For example, High achievers may be great at getting things done, however they might be taking on too much and burning themselves out. People with Harmony may be great at building consensus, but may be avoiding conflict by minimizing opportunities for difficult conversations.

 
What are the 34 Strengths?

The 34 CliftonStrengths are organized into 4 categories. These categories are explained below, with a brief description of each Strength in that domain.

 
Executing Domain:

These are Strengths that like to be busy and get things done.

1. Achiever:

Driven to accomplish tasks and goals with high levels of productivity.

2.  Arranger:

Skilled at organizing and coordinating resources to achieve efficient outcomes.

3. Belief:

Guided by strong core values and principles that shape their actions.

4. Consistency:

Strives for fairness, equality, and uniformity in their work and relationships.

5. Deliberative:

Cautious and thoughtful, taking a systematic approach to decision-making and problem-solving.

6. Discipline:

Desires self-control and structure in their routines and tasks.

7. Focus:

Able to concentrate and prioritize, ignoring distractions to achieve desired outcomes.

8. Responsibility:

Takes psychological ownership of their commitments and follows through on obligations.

9. Restorative:

Skilled at identifying and resolving problems, finding solutions to restore balance.

Influencing Domain: These Strengths enjoy working with/through others, driving change, and communicating ideas.

10. Activator:

Initiates action and drives momentum, inspiring others to take immediate steps.

11. Command:

Assertive and influential, comfortable taking charge and leading others.

12. Communication:

Articulates ideas effectively, engaging and connecting with others through their words.

13. Competition:

Thrives in competitive environments, striving to outperform others.

14. Maximizer:

Focuses on strengths, seeking excellence and helping others reach their full potential.

15. Self-Assurance:

Possesses a strong belief in their capabilities, projecting self-assuredness.

16. Significance:

Desires to make a significant impact and be recognized for their contributions.

17. Woo:

Skilled at building relationships and winning others over through charm and persuasion.

Relationship Building Domain: These Strengths enjoy connecting with the people they know and enjoy time one-on-one or with smaller groups.

18. Adaptability:

Adjusts easily to changing circumstances and remains flexible in their approach.

19. Connectedness:

Sees the interconnectedness of people and events, finding meaning and purpose in relationships.

20. Developer:

Invests in the growth and development of others, helping them reach their potential.

21. Empathy:

Sensitively understands and shares the feelings of others, offering support and compassion.

22. Harmony:

Strives for cooperation and consensus, valuing harmony in relationships and environments.

23. Includer:

Embraces diversity and ensures that everyone feels welcome and valued.

24. Individualization:

Recognizes and appreciates the unique qualities and strengths of each individual.

25. Positivity:

Radiates enthusiasm and optimism, uplifting others with their contagious energy.

26. Relator:

Forms deep and meaningful connections over time, building relationships based on trust and authenticity.

 
Strategic Thinking Domain:These Strengths involve deep reflection, generating innovative ideas, learning about the past, speculating about the future, and providing insightful perspectives.

27 .Analytical

Thoroughly examines information and data to make informed decisions.

28. Context:

Understands the historical context and uses past experiences to provide insights.

29. Futuristic:

Envisions a compelling future and inspires others with their forward-thinking perspectives.

30. Ideation:

Generates innovative and creative ideas, exploring different possibilities and connections.

31. Input:

Curious and constantly seeking new knowledge and information to fuel their thinking.

32. Intellection:

Thinks deeply and introspectively, valuing intellectual pursuits and reflection.

33. Learner:

Eager to continuously learn and acquire new skills, finding joy in the journey of growth.

34. Strategic:

Develops and executes plans with a clear sense of direction and purpose.

What are the most and least common CliftonStrengths?

Over 30 million people have taken the CliftonStrengths assessment, and Gallup does frequent analysis of the data. To date, these are the most and least common Strengths across all of those who have taken the assessment:

Top 5:

Achiever, Responsibility, Learner, Relator, and Strategic.

Bottom 5:

Command, Self-Assurance, Significance, Discipline, and Context

How do I find out my Strengths?

Interested in discovering your Strengths? Book a call with us to find out how you can take the assessment and use the results to level up in your job or find the type of career you’re looking for.

To learn more book time with our Strengths coach!