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StrengthsFinder isn’t just a list of strengths; it’s a game-changer for teams. It’s not about labeling people as a handful of the 34 CliftonStrengths; it’s about breaking down barriers and enhancing collaboration. Using StrengthsFinder for team building is like unlocking a hidden code for teamwork success and improved team dynamics. Here are a few reasons why it’s essential:
- Understanding Strengths: StrengthsFinder helps you see what makes people excel. Does someone thrive on strategic thinking or relationship building? Knowing this helps team members truly understand each other.
- Boosting Communication: By recognizing individual strengths, team members can communicate more effectively. It’s like speaking the same language, ensuring everyone is on the same page!
- Enhancing Collaboration: Different strengths bring different capabilities. StrengthsFinder helps teams identify and utilize these strengths, like assembling the pieces of a puzzle.
- Reducing Conflict: Ever wonder why some people just don’t click? StrengthsFinder can uncover these reasons and find ways to transform disagreements into productive teamwork.
- Personal Growth: StrengthsFinder isn’t just about working together; it’s about growing together. Team members can learn about their own strengths and become better at what they do.
- Building Trust: Trust doesn’t develop overnight. By using StrengthsFinder, team members learn to trust each other’s strengths and weaknesses.
But how do we turn StrengthsFinder from a list of strengths into a true team-building tool? What’s the right StrengthsFinder team building activity for you and your team? Choose from one of the following activities and discover how StrengthsFinder and team building go hand-in-hand.
Looking for something different than CliftonStrengths? Check out 5 alternatives to StrengthsFinder, or consider giving TeamDynamics a try!
What’s the Difference Between StrengthsFinder and CliftonStrengths?
If you’ve heard of StrengthsFinder and CliftonStrengths, you might be wondering what the difference is between the two. The short answer: they’re essentially the same thing, but with a new name and a broader vision.
StrengthsFinder Origins
StrengthsFinder was developed by Donald O. Clifton, a psychologist known as the father of strengths-based psychology. He created this tool to help people identify their unique talents and leverage them for personal and professional success. The original StrengthsFinder assessment, introduced in the early 2000s, quickly became a popular tool for individuals and teams looking to discover their strengths.
Transition to CliftonStrengths
In 2015, Gallup, the organization behind StrengthsFinder, rebranded the assessment to CliftonStrengths in honor of its creator. This change was not just about a name update but also a reinforcement of the assessment’s purpose and legacy. The new name emphasizes the foundational work of Donald Clifton and aligns with Gallup’s commitment to strengths-based development.
What’s New with CliftonStrengths?
While the core assessment remains the same, offering insights into 34 distinct talent themes, the rebranding to CliftonStrengths brought a renewed focus on helping people use their strengths more effectively. Gallup introduced new resources, tools, and training programs under the CliftonStrengths banner to enhance the application of strengths in various aspects of life, from career development to team building and leadership.
Why the Change Matters
Rebranding to CliftonStrengths underscores the importance of the tool’s origins and its scientific basis. It highlights the dedication to helping individuals and organizations unlock potential by focusing on strengths rather than weaknesses. The name CliftonStrengths serves as a reminder of the legacy and ongoing impact of Donald Clifton’s work.
Activity 1: StrengthsFinder Strengths Appreciation Circle
Goal: Build a positive team culture and reinforce the value of each member’s contributions.
Duration: 45+ minutes
Materials:
- StrengthsFinder test results for each team member
- A small, fun item to use as a “talking stick” (e.g., a soft toy, a unique object)
- A timer or watch
- Printouts of the template worksheet (provided in the download)
Description: The Strengths Appreciation Circle is an engaging activity aimed at building a positive team culture by recognizing and appreciating each other’s strengths. Team members sit in a circle and take turns holding a “talking stick.” Each person shares one strength they appreciate in another team member, along with a specific example of how this strength has positively impacted the team. This activity fosters a supportive environment, enhances mutual respect, and reinforces the value of each team member’s unique contributions. The circle format ensures that everyone is both a giver and receiver of appreciation, promoting a culture of recognition and gratitude.
Activity 2: StrengthsFinder Strengths Mapping Workshop
Goal: Visualize the team’s collective strengths, identify common themes, and understand how different strengths complement each other.
Duration: 60+ minutes
Materials:
- StrengthsFinder test results for each team member
- Sticky notes (multiple colors)
- Large board, wall space, or butcher paper
- Markers
- Tape
- Printouts of the template worksheet (provided in the download)
Description: The Strengths Mapping Workshop is a dynamic activity designed to help teams visualize and understand their collective strengths. Each team member writes down their top five strengths from the StrengthsFinder assessment on sticky notes. These notes are then placed on a large board or wall, grouped by similar strengths. This visual representation allows the team to see patterns and clusters of strengths, fostering discussions on how these strengths complement each other and can be leveraged for future projects. The workshop not only highlights individual contributions but also strengthens team cohesion and appreciation of diverse skills.
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Activity 3: StrengthsFinder Strengths Development Goals Workshop
Goal: Encourage continuous personal growth and team development by leveraging strengths.
Duration: 75+ minutes
Materials:
- StrengthsFinder test results for each team member
- Flip charts
- Markers
- Pens and paper
- A timer or watch
- Printouts of the template worksheet (provided in the download)
Description: The Strengths Development Goals Workshop encourages team members to set personal and team goals based on their identified strengths. Participants begin by writing down one personal development goal and one team goal that leverages their strengths. They then share these goals in pairs or small groups, discussing how they plan to achieve them. The workshop culminates in a team discussion where everyone shares their goals and strategies for mutual support. This collaborative approach not only promotes individual growth but also aligns the team’s efforts towards common objectives, enhancing overall performance and cohesion.
Activity 4: StrengthsFinder Strengths Pairing Activities
Goal: Foster collaboration and show how different strengths can work together effectively.
Duration: 90+ minutes
Materials:
- StrengthsFinder test results for each team member
- Supplies for a team-building task (e.g., materials for building a model, puzzle pieces, or an escape room kit)
- A timer or watch
- Printouts of the template worksheet (provided in the download)
Description: Strengths Pairing Activities are designed to foster collaboration by pairing team members with complementary strengths for a fun and challenging task. Teams are given a specific project, such as building a model or solving a puzzle, and paired based on how their strengths can best complement each other. As they work together, team members gain insights into how their strengths interplay, overcome challenges, and achieve their objectives. After completing the task, a debrief session allows the team to discuss their experiences, learnings, and how these insights can be applied to real work scenarios. This activity highlights the power of diverse strengths working in harmony to achieve common goals.
