Is there someone on your team or someone you know who just knows the perfect gift for someone, the perfect compliment, or the perfect role for someone? There is a good chance the CliftonStrengths® talent theme of Individualization is in his or her top 5. Listen to what that person says! If you want to get the right people on the bus and in the right seats then the Individualization talent theme is just the ticket.
People with Individualization as a top-ranking talent have amazing intuition about the people that they meet. They don’t just know that each human is unique, profound, and different, they also just know the gifts and jobs that are a great fit for that person. Sometimes they know more about the person than the person knows about himself! This insight makes them great at team building. It can also make them very effective in sales and customer service as they are in tune with the needs and wants of customers.
Furthermore, your sense that everyone is unique means everyone should be treated according to their uniqueness. In your view, standard approaches that apply to all people are ineffective. Generalizations and “types” are not helpful because they hide the uniqueness and brilliance of individuals. That is where you find joy; focusing on people’s differences and the things that make each person unique. That is also why you adapt your own style to better relate to others.
I have a special place in my heart for those of you with Individualization. As a leader, I love that you can help me put people into roles they will love and where they will thrive. Ah, but it is easier for you to see the brilliance of others while you are blind to your own brilliance and uniqueness. If ever there was a talent for poor self-esteem, this is it. I always encourage my clients with Individualization in their top-5 to develop a love and appreciation for their uniqueness as well.
Here are some other words that may describe strong Individualization in a person.
- Intuitive
- Insightful
- Perceptive
- Astute
- Customizer
Remember, your talents don’t exist independently, there are interdependent with each other. How does Individualization affect your other talents and how do your other talents color your individualization? Additionally, it is only when we add skills, knowledge, and use over time do our talents become true strengths. What can you do today or this week to grow your talent?
Please share your thoughts and comments about your experience with this talent.
CliftonStrengths” and the 34 CliftonStrengths theme names are registered trademarks of Gallup, Inc. The graphic elements copyright © CoreClarity, Inc.
