As mentioned in the post yesterday, we can use our CliftonStrengths to support us in all areas of our life. They can guide us to a plan that feels right for each of us.
Actions that leverage who we are at our core.
This post dives into how those with Executing Themes can highlight their talents on their resume AND use these strengths to tailor their job search in a way that is suited to their tendencies.
Below is a summary of each Executing 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 years working as a CliftonStrengths coach.
Achiever
“People exceptionally talented in the Achiever theme work hard and possess a great deal of stamina. They take immense satisfaction in being busy and productive.” – Gallup
Approach: Set daily job search goals and track progress. You could create a checklist of tasks such as researching companies, sending out applications, and following up with recruiters. Setting targets and numbers to hit daily or weekly can keep you on track.
Resume: Highlight work ethic and ability to meet deadlines. Mention accomplishments that required sustained effort and dedication.
Arranger
“People exceptionally talented in the Arranger theme can organize, but they also have a flexibility that complements this ability. They like to determine how all the pieces and resources can be arranged for maximum productivity.” – Gallup
Approach: You’ll likely organize your job search process with precision, managing multiple applications, networking efforts, and interviews simultaneously, while keeping everything in order.
Resume: Arrangers can discuss their talent for organizing resources and managing multiple tasks. Provide examples of how workflows or processes have been optimized.
Belief
“People exceptionally talented in the Belief theme have certain core values that are unchanging. Out of these values emerges a defined purpose for their lives.” – Gallup
Approach: Target companies that align with core values and personal mission. Consider creating a job criteria spreadsheet listing the qualities you are looking for and rating each job you find.
Resume: Let companies know that they have been selected for your search because their values resonate with yours. Highlight commitments to causes or missions that are important to you.
Consistency
“People exceptionally talented in the Consistency theme are keenly aware of the need to treat people the same. They crave stable routines and clear rules and procedures that everyone can follow.” – Gallup
Approach: Maintain a steady and methodical approach to your job search, applying to roles that align with your skills and values while consistently following through on each step.
Resume: Emphasize your fairness and ability to create a stable environment. Employers value those who can enforce standards and ensure equity.
Deliberative
“People exceptionally talented in the Deliberative theme are best described by the serious care they take in making decisions or choices. They anticipate obstacles.” – Gallup
Approach: You’ll carefully consider each opportunity, weighing the pros and cons before making any decisions. Your job search will be cautious and risk averse. Take time to think and plan.
Resume: Highlight your cautious and thoughtful approach to decision-making. Employers value candidates who mitigate risks and think things through.
Discipline
People exceptionally talented in the Discipline theme enjoy routine and structure. Their world is best described by the order they create.
Approach: Create a structured schedule for your job search, dedicating specific times each day to different tasks, such as researching, applying, and following up.
Resume: Emphasize your organizational skills and ability to create structure. Highlight your experience with planning and executing detailed projects.
Focus
“People exceptionally talented in the Focus theme can take a direction, follow through and make the corrections necessary to stay on track. They prioritize, then act.” – Gallup
Approach: Set clear, specific goals for your job search and stay concentrated on achieving them. Take the time to prioritize your approach, then avoid distractions and remain committed to the plan.
Resume: Highlight your ability to concentrate on goals and see projects through to completion. Discuss how you prioritize tasks to achieve results.
Responsibility
“People exceptionally talented in the Responsibility theme take psychological ownership of what they say they will do. They are committed to stable values like honesty & loyalty.” – Gallup
Resume: Emphasize your reliability and commitment to fulfilling your obligations. Employers value candidates who can be trusted to follow through.
Approach: Take ownership of your job search, following through on every application and commitment. You’ll be diligent in preparing for interviews and meeting deadlines.
Restorative
“People exceptionally talented in the Restorative theme are adept at dealing with problems. They are good at figuring out what is wrong and resolving it.” – Gallup
Approach: Focus on identifying and overcoming any obstacles in your job search. You’ll likely enjoy the challenge of fixing issues, such as improving your resume or interview skills.
Resume: Position yourself as a problem-solver who enjoys fixing things. Discuss how you’ve successfully resolved issues or turned around difficult situations.
Your Turn
Do you have Executing 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.