Exploring the strengths-based approach for Graduates – Part 4 of 4
In an interview situation, you need to be able to make yourself stand out from the crowd. You need to be memorable. You can do this in many ways: by being presentable, enthusiastic, attentive… but you can also do this by being self-aware.
In other words, you need to be able to recognise what your personal strengths are AND how a strength you have that is similar to someone else, is different in you. And if you not only know your strengths but also how they’ll suit the job you’re applying for, then you need to be able to explain this to your interviewer – with conviction.
What qualities or strengths do you have that would be perfect for the job you seek? Spend some time considering this.
In this series of four blogs, we’ve been looking at 34 key strengths, which can be divided into four categories or domains. We’ve looked at the domains of EXECUTOR, STRATEGIC THINKER and INFLUENCER. Now we’ll be looking at RELATIONSHIP BUILDERS.
The strengths-based approach breaks down your strength in each of the four domains to describe exactly what type of EXECUTOR, STRATEGIC THINKER, INFLUENCER or RELATIONSHIP BUILDER you are, and that’s what makes it so great for helping you to define your difference during an interview.
So, what type of Relationship Builder are you?
A RELATIONSHIP BUILDER is kind and caring. Friendships mean everything to them. They’re good at keeping in touch with their friends and often have the same friends throughout their lives. They like to spend their spare time with the people they know best. They’re loyal and they never forget a birthday or an anniversary!
1. Adaptability – People who are adaptable can take whatever life throws at them. They always seem to remain positive and they don’t mind adapting to the needs or schedules of others.
2. Connectedness – If this strength is one of yours, you’ll believe that all people are interconnected at some level, everything happens for a reason, and there are very few coincidences in life. Having the ability to connect with others means that you can form relationships easily and you can also see ways to help others.
3. Developer – If you fall into the developer category, you can recognise the potential in others. You can spot talent and develop it. You’re a natural motivator and encourager.
4. Empathy – If you’re truly empathetic, you can sense the feelings of other people. You can put yourself in their shoes and understand what they’re going through. This ability means that you find it easy to form deep and trusting relationships.
5. Harmony – If you’re strongly influenced by harmony, you like people to get along! You hate arguments and uneasy atmospheres. If there’s any kind of issue or problem, you’re the one who’s determined to find a solution.
6. Individualisation – If this is your strength, you’re gifted in being able to see the uniqueness of the people you meet. You can appreciate character and individuality; you value people for who they are. You can also visualise how people from varying backgrounds can come together to work as a team, each offering their own strengths and talents.
7. Includer – Those who fall into this category hold the belief that people should try to come together as a team to solve problems and reach targets. They don’t like to leave anyone out and they believe that everyone has something to offer. Of course, this approach only works well if you’re a collaborator too!
8. Positivity – Positive people seem to have boundless energy. They’re optimistic and upbeat. They can see the good in most situations and they celebrate each achievement, knowing that even small achievements can lead to larger accomplishments.
9. Relator – If you’re a relator, there’s nothing you love more than spending time with friends and family. You always make time to see them and you keep up with all their news.
Whatever type of RELATIONSHIP BUILDER, INFLUENCER, STRATEGIC THINKER or EXECUTOR you are, remember to put this across in your job interview. Tell your potential employer, with conviction, how your unique strengths have helped you in various situations and how they’d help you in this particular job.
Taking a STRENGTHS-BASED APPROACH leads to contentment in both life and work. When you know what your strengths are and can use them, you’ll be at your most productive and happy because you’ll be working from a place where you feel strongest. You’ll be at your most creative, productive, efficient and resilient. If you work to your strengths, you’ll be able to reach your goals!
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