Week 1 – Defining Development
Lesson 5 Step 2 Identify Where to Develop
Strengths-Based Development proposes that our best potential likes in leveraging what we are already good at. Identifying our talents (natural ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving that can be productively applied) can be difficult. This is likely because our talents are innate. As they come so easily
We forget we are using them
If we do notice them in action, we automatically discount them and assume everyone else can do the same if not better
An example of where this happens is in a job interview. Often there is a part of the interview where we will be asked, “tell me what you think your strengths are?” What normally happen is we offer up generics like “team player” and “hard worker.” The trick is to be able to describe what you uniquely do that no one else does.
Important Point We leverage these talents in all aspects of our lives. When thinking about development we often limit our thinking to a work context, but development can occur outside of work e.g., leading a volunteer group and it could be you negotiate with your work for some time/flexibility to be able to do this.
Activity Complete the activity Identifying Development Pathways on Page 7 of your Black Workbook. One done click on the drop down below to reveal the answers
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I am new to my role and establishing credibility > Development focus on learning the functions of the business or role
I am established in my role and have made it my own > Development could look like raising your profile
“I have proven that I can deliver consistently. Looking for something to challenge me" > Development through exposure, or leading projects
"I am looking to broaden my skills and work in other functions" > Portfolio development - Having a variety of experiences and roles. Multi-disciplinary
"I want to be the best in my field and expertise" > Mastery development - continuing to gain knowledge and expertise in your chosen field
"I want the top job in my company" > Liner development - climb the ladder in the company through promotions
Case Study What focus on talent versus weakness?
Why is it important to leverage our talents? See Page 8 of your Black Workbook
Most if not all behaviours can be learned vs only some behaviours can be learned
The best performers in a role display same behaviours vs the best performers in a role deliver the same outcomes using different behaviours
Weakness fixing leads to success vs weakness-fixing prevents failure, strengths-building leads to success
Optional Read Strengths is a lens on our 800% Potential. Read the case study
Team Leader Debrief
That’s the end of this week’s online learning. Do you have a 15 minute debrief booked with your team leader/sponsor? Aim to answer the questions
What is one discovery you have made?
What is one thing you will do differently?
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