When people hear the term strengths, they usually think of work and career. We are conditioned to view our strengths through the lens of our careers. We use our strengths to highlight our abilities when we compete in the job market in order to outshine other applicants. We rely on performance reviews to record our efficiency and the ways we stand out hoping to boost our careers and get a promotion.
Every profession requires a certain level of expertise gained through direct knowledge, experience, and training. Some things can be taught regardless of talent. Anyone can be competent at their job but not everyone has that certain something that sets them apart.
Human resources and management staff appreciate employees who have certain strengths that make them-
- Easier to manage
- Less risk for termination
- More likely to advance
While having a great attitude, the willingness to learn, and team-centered focus are all great strengths, there are three strengths that can amplify your presence at work in a very positive way. Here are the ABC’s of superior strengths on the job.
Accountability
Boundaries
Communication skills
These strengths can catapult your career into the next level because they are key strengths that managers covet.
Accountability- Being accountable for your work, behavior, and attitude are admirable strengths. Accountability is the ownership of the good and the bad going on. No one is perfect all the time. Being accountable helps you stay focused and make better decisions. Staff who hold themselves accountable are easy to manage and tend to advance into higher paying positions.
Boundaries- One of the hot ticket issues in employee management these days centers on boundaries. Whether it’s boundaries between staff or boundaries between staff and the public, a lot of time and energy is spent managing poor boundaries. Staff who can manage their own boundaries tend to shine. Staff who are self-aware and understand healthy relationships and how to manage them need less interventions making them assets that stand out.
Communication skills- All forms of communication matter. Mastery of written, oral, and non-verbal communication skills are a strength worth having. Being able to communicate well is important but knowing what and how to communicate is as important. Some employees communicate too much and entirely the wrong way or there isn’t enough communication causing another set of problems. Having excellent communication skills makes you dependable and an asset your employer can rely on.
Getting ahead at work is easier when you stand out. Developing these three strengths will surely help you shine.
