Using the Language of Strengths to Enhance Leadership Influence

The language of Strengths can often inadvertently cloud our perception of a leader’s influence. Instead of solely relying on Strengths definitions, we advocate for first understanding how and why a leader influences their team. Then, we can use the language of Strengths to articulate that influence.

Today on the Leadership Vision Podcast, we delve into how we can use the language of Strengths to better understand and interpret how a leader influences their people, casting a clear and articulate vision for their team to follow. Often, there’s a unique balance between helping individuals understand their Strengths without allowing those definitions to frame too rigidly how they interpret other people’s actions. We aim to recognize the language of Strengths not necessarily as a framework but as a foundation to understand how our leaders guide us.

We discuss three core themes—Relationships, Results, and Responsibilities—and explore how leaders across various industries navigate these areas using their unique strengths.

Relationships Matter

Achiever and Relator

Linda highlights a leader who uses their Strengths of Achiever and Relator to build relationships. This leader connects with her team through her strong work ethic, using the work as a rallying tool and fostering a sense of belonging within the organization. Brian adds that her strength of Relator extends into creating intentional rapport, trust, and accountability.

Ideation and Competition

Another leader uses Ideation and Competition to build relationships. Instead of using direct relational themes, he connects with his team through brainstorming and a competitive drive. He seeks the best ideas, fostering a sense of camaraderie and creating an environment where winning together is a primary focus.

Brian emphasizes that understanding how different leaders approach relationships through their unique Strengths can mitigate confusion and enhance team cohesion.

Achieving Results

Results are crucial for any team or organization. Nathan introduces the concept of three types of leaders who achieve results in different ways:

1. The Benevolent Disrupter: This leader challenges the status quo to drive progress.
2. The Steady Eddie: Consistent, clear, and reliable, this leader ensures steady progress.
3. The Example-Setter: This leader leads by example and reputation, motivating the team through personal conduct.

Case Studies

Brian and Linda provide real-life examples of these leader types:

• A benevolent disrupter who uses data and strengths like Arranger to make informed, impactful decisions.
• A steady Eddie who uses clear Communication and Consistent actions to drive results.
• An example-setter with strengths of Learner and Relator, building relationships and seeking continuous improvement to inspire his team.

Taking Responsibility

Linda and Brian discuss the importance of responsibility in leadership. Leaders often want their teams to take more responsibility, navigate uncertainty, and embrace risks. They highlight a leader who uses Woo and Communication to create an exciting environment where mid-level leaders feel inspired to grow and take on new challenges.

Linda also speaks about a leader with the Themes of Strategic and Adaptability who demonstrates flexibility and planning, encouraging their team to pivot and respond effectively to new challenges.

Key Takeaways for Leaders and Team Members

So, what can leaders and team members take away from this discussion?

Assess and Apply Your Strengths

Leaders should continuously assess their strengths and how they apply them to build relationships, achieve results, and take responsibility. Encourage open conversations with your team about strengths and seek feedback to enhance your leadership approach.

Understand Your Leader’s Strengths

Team members should strive to understand their leader’s strengths and how those strengths influence their behaviors and decisions. This understanding can foster better communication and cohesion within the team.

Embrace Continuous Learning

Regardless of strengths profiles or leadership styles, the best leaders consistently seek growth, adaptation, and learning. Prioritizing relationships, results, and responsibility within teams ensures a positive and productive team culture.

Your Leadership

Thank you to Brian and Linda Shubring for sharing their insights on the Leadership Vision Podcast. If you found this information helpful, spread the word and apply these strategies to enhance your leadership influence. We would love to hear about how this resonates with you. Please connect with us at connect@leadershipvisionconsulting.com.

Stay connected with us at Leadership Vision Consulting for more on building a positive team culture and leveraging strengths in leadership.