We can use our CliftonStrengths to support us in all areas of our life. Today is Day 4 of posts on how we can use our strengths to drive a job search – both our overall approach and updating our resume.
Below is a summary of each Relationship Theme and some tips on how to use the theme in the job search. The first sentence of each comes from the CliftonStrengths Overviews. The ideas for approach and resume are my thoughts based on my work as a CliftonStrengths coach.
Adaptability
“People exceptionally talented in the Adaptability theme prefer to go with the flow. They tend to be ‘now’ people who take things as they come and discover the future one day at a time.” – Gallup
Approach: You’re flexible and open to exploring different roles or industries. You might adapt your search strategy based on market trends or feedback from interviews.
Resume: Emphasize your flexibility and ability to thrive in dynamic environments. Highlight experiences where you quickly adapted to change.
Connectedness
“People exceptionally talented in the Connectedness theme have faith in the links among all things. They believe there are few coincidences and that almost every event has meaning.” – Gallup
Approach: Use your network to connect with potential employers, believing that every interaction could lead to the right opportunity. You might see your job search as part of a larger journey.
Resume: Leverage your ability to see connections between people and ideas to network effectively. Highlight how your broader perspective can bring value to a team.
Developer
“People exceptionally talented in the Developer theme recognize and cultivate the potential in others. They spot the signs of each small improvement and derive satisfaction from evidence of progress.” – Gallup
Approach: Focus on finding roles where you can grow and develop your skills. You might also look for opportunities to mentor others or contribute to their development.
Resume: Position yourself as a mentor or coach who helps others grow. Share examples of how you’ve helped colleagues or team members improve.
Empathy
“People exceptionally talented in the Empathy theme can sense other people’s feelings by imagining themselves in others’ lives or situations.” – Gallup
Approach: Consider seeking roles in environments where you can connect with others emotionally. You might reach out to your network to understand their experiences and gather support.
Resume: Demonstrate your ability to understand and respond to others’ emotions. Use examples where your empathy led to positive outcomes in teamwork.
Harmony
“People exceptionally talented in the Harmony theme look for consensus. They don’t enjoy conflict; rather, they seek areas of agreement.” – Gallup
Approach: Look for opportunities in organizations known for their positive work culture. You may want to avoid highly competitive environments in favor of collaborative ones.
Resume: Emphasize your ability to mediate conflicts and create consensus. Employers appreciate team players who can maintain peace and cooperation.
Includer
“People exceptionally talented in the Includer theme accept others. They show awareness of those who feel left out and make an effort to include them.” – Gallup
Approach: Leverage your inclusive nature to build a broad network during your job search. You’ll reach out to diverse groups and may seek roles in inclusive workplaces.
Resume: Position yourself as someone who values diversity and ensures everyone feels included. Share examples of how you’ve fostered an inclusive environment.
Individualization
“People exceptionally talented in the Individualization theme are intrigued with the unique qualities of each person. They have a gift for figuring out how different people can work together productively.” – Gallup
Approach: Tailor your job search strategy to each company and role, customizing your applications to highlight how your unique skills match the job requirements.
Resume: Emphasize your talent for recognizing uniqueness – in people, products, businesses, etc. Discuss how you’ve tailored approaches to maximize individual strengths.
Positivity
“People exceptionally talented in the Positivity theme have contagious enthusiasm. They are upbeat and can get others excited about what they are going to do.” – Gallup
Approach: You’ll maintain an optimistic attitude throughout your job search, seeing setbacks as temporary and focusing on the positive aspects of each opportunity.
Resume: Emphasize your optimistic outlook and ability to boost team morale. Employers appreciate candidates who can maintain a positive atmosphere.
Relator
“People exceptionally talented in the Relator theme enjoy close relationships with others. They find deep satisfaction in working hard with friends to achieve a goal.” – Gallup
Approach: Prioritize building strong, genuine connections with people during your job search. Networking will be key, and you’ll likely seek referrals from trusted contacts.
Resume: Highlight your ability to build deep, trusting relationships. Discuss how your connections have led to successful collaborations.
Your Turn
Do you have Relationship Themes in your Top 5 CliftonStrengths?
Would the tips provided here shift how you think about your job search?
Are there new angles on your strengths you could leverage to add to your resume?
NOTE: To check out all the posts in the series this week, here are the links: Strengths in the Domain Categories, Executing Themes, Influencing Themes, Relationship Themes, and Thinking Themes.