Strength can be subtle.
I worked with someone interviewing for a senior role with several leading ad agencies. Her goal was to ensure she was at her best during the interview process.
We explored her core strengths to identify what 'at her best' looks like using the VIA Character Strengths survey. (2/3 of us are unaware of our strengths according to research.)
Having completed the survey, I started our session asking what was her initial reaction to her strengths report.
Disappointed was her her reaction. Maybe confused. Her top strength was Humility. Really?
Was she cut out to be a leader? Her words, not mine. Humility seemed soft to her. Not the attribute of a boss.
So, together we challenged that view.
- Humility involves an accurate self-assessment of one's limitations
- Humility strengthens social and team bonds
- Humility means I'm ok, but let's keep the focus on you
- Humility lets one's achievements speak for themselves
We discussed the implications of too much and too little humility. Where the sweet spot is as a strength.
Finally, we spoke about what it would be like to work for a truly humble leader. Her eyes lit up. The penny dropped. Humility is a leadership strength.
Looking at the news, we could do with a few more humble leaders.
Photo by Bruno Horwath on Unsplash
