I’ve been reading and blogging about how to develop your strengths at work, and as a manager, how we need to focus on developing the strengths of others. However, sometimes people exaggerate what they’re good at, and their talents and strengths turn into problems.
A strength at work can easily turn into a weakness, and vice versa, a weakness can become a strength when moderated. Take a look at the following helpful chart using four personality types, Analytical, Driver, Amiable, and Expressive:
(Sources: Peter Urs Bender’s Guide to Strengths and Weaknesses of Personality Types, &
Brinkman, Rick, and Kirschner, Rick (2002), Dealing with People You Can’t Stand: How to Bring Out the Best in People at Their Worst, 2nd ed. McGraw-Hill.)
Do you recognize yourself as fitting into any of these general personality types? Can you identify your strengths? Are you able to see how they can also turn into weaknesses? For example, think about the most analytical person in your work team. Have they ever drove you crazy because of their insistence on accuracy, details, and perfection?
No mater how well intended you are, when you let your natural strength dominate, it can lead to behaviors that are problematic. Managers need to be able to notice when this happens. Then they can guide each personality type to more reasonable thinking and actions.
What’s been your experience? Have you worked with a manager or coach to help you identify and explore your strengths at work? I’d love to hear from you. You can contact me here or on LinkedIn.
