How to identify your strengths in the workplace

In today’s work environment, setting time aside to identify your unique strengths in the workplace is a valuable habit. It can significantly enhance your productivity, whilst allowing you to take control of your career and maximise your growth and success.

Recognising your strengths and incorporating them into your daily tasks, while identifying areas for growth and development, can transform your career. Here's how you can do it.

> Why is identifying your strengths important?

Self-reflecting on your strengths (and weaknesses) can help you be honest with yourself as to what you need to improve upon. It can provide insight into learning and development opportunities.

If your strengths align to the industry you’ve chosen, you can determine how to use your skill set to thrive in that environment.

You can also use your strengths to align to the job descriptions when applying to roles. Of course everyone can work on their skills, but having a natural interest will definitely help when just starting out.

> Types of strengths at work

There are plenty of things that can be an advantage in the workplace, some of which you may not have even considered.

• Problem solving skills

• Ability to work in a team

• Self motivated

• Written communication skills

• Verbal communication skills

• Adaptability

• Accountability

• Integrity

• Creativity

• Technical skills

• Organisational skills

• Leadership skills

• Positive attitude

• Attention to detail

• Active listening

> How do I identify my strengths?

There are a few ways that you can find out what you’re best at.

Self-assessment

Reflect on your past experiences, tasks and situations where you feel you performed well and received positive feedback. Identify the themes and skills that contributed to your success on these projects.

Seek feedback

Ask for feedback from your manager, team members and mentors about what they think your strengths are. Sometimes, others may see strengths in you that you don’t see in yourself.

Engaging in a loop of continuous feedback with your manager can also help.

This is especially true if you find that you suffer from imposter syndrome.

Utilise assessment tools

There are tools such as StrengthsFinder, Myers-Brigg Type Indicator or DISC assessments that you can use to gain insights into your personality type and what your strengths are.

These types of tests can also give you recommendations on what career could potentially be suitable for you.

> How do I leverage and build on my strengths in the workplace?

Volunteer for and complete tasks that align to your strengths to see how they hold up. This can help confirm their validity and help identify areas for self-improvement.

Wherever possible, align your day to day tasks with your strengths. This can help to improve job satisfaction and enhance productivity when you feel you’re performing well.

Develop complementary skills

Identify the gaps in your knowledge. Work out where your skills may not be as strong and identify skills to learn that can help balance your capabilities. Invest in professional development opportunities, training programmes and expand your skill set in your own time.

Set goals for yourself that will keep you on track, whether that’s a certain amount of courses per month or taking on a set amount of tasks.

Encourage a strengths-based mindset

This is especially relevant if you’re in a leadership role. Encourage a culture where you leverage the strengths of your team members and empower your employees to succeed in their roles.

For other employees, don’t be afraid to ask for help from someone whose skills are different to yours. A team that plays to its collective strengths is able to achieve outstanding results.

> In conclusion

Identifying and leveraging your strengths in the workplace is an ongoing journey of self discovery, self reflection and self improvement. By aligning your tasks with your strengths, seeking opportunities for growth and fostering a strengths-based culture, you can achieve greater productivity and career advancement.

Remember, your strengths are unique to you and set you apart, but don’t be complacent. Use them wisely and constantly develop new skills to carve out a successful and fulfilling career path.

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