Strengths questionnaires are usually done online these days. (Photo: Ed Yourden)
Previously, I’ve explained how to identify your strengths through self-reflection. In order to use self-reflection, you’d have to be aware of your body and mind, watch how they naturally respond to situations, and take some extra time to sit and reflect in the ways I outlined. This is all well and good, and many people relish that type of self-analysis. Others, including my own good self, don’t find that quite so appealing. Personally, I’d prefer to just fill out a questionnaire and get the results. If you’re like me then read on, and I’ll tell you where to go next. First of all – in case you’re unsure which way to go – here are the pros and cons of each:
For Self-Reflection/Against Questionnaires
Questionnaires are fixed and rigid – Although there are many thousands of possible outcomes from a questionnaire, it is still blocked into a framework, and cannot tell you about anything outside of the framework. Self-reflection is more flexible.
Questionnaires are focused on psychological and social strengths only – So you won’t discover any physical abilities like reaction time or balance except through reflection.
Self-Reflection is more personalised and focused on you - Its outcome is based on your real-life behaviour. Questionnaires, on the other hand, give you a best-guess based on your answers to questions – this has potential for error.
Increased self-knowledge – You’ll surely learn more about yourself from doing this.
For Questionnaires/Against Self-Reflection
You may not have the words – If you don’t have a good vocabulary to identify strengths with, you might miss some, or not realise that a certain consistent behaviour can be applied productively. Once you’ve very familiar with the strengths vocabulary, you might even try your hand at Talent SpeedReading, which could be useful if you’re in a managerial position.
Personal taste – Some people find self-reflection difficult or boring.
Backed by research – Yes, responses are fixed into a framework, but there are good reasons that this framework exists. These models are not arbitrary: research has been done to test their effectiveness.
Saves time and effort - 45 minutes to 1 hr, versus 1 or 2 weeks.
Of course, you can always do both, and see how the results compare. If you need any help, Positive Consulting offer coaching and workshops for individuals and organisations. Contact us for more details.
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