Imagine if every leader in Greater Akron showed up as their best self — bringing their unique talents to inspire change, foster collaboration, and tackle challenges with purpose. 

That’s what strengths-based leadership is all about: making a meaningful impact by focusing on what you naturally do best.

At Leadership Akron, we believe that great leadership starts with self-awareness. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just stepping into leadership, understanding your strengths can unlock a whole new level of effectiveness. One of the most powerful tools for this discovery is Gallup’s CliftonStrengths® assessment.

What is CliftonStrengths?

CliftonStrengths (formerly known as StrengthsFinder) is an evidence-based tool that helps you identify your natural talents — the way you think, feel, and behave most naturally. The assessment categorizes these talents into 34 CliftonStrengths themes, grouped into four domains that explain HOW individuals contribute to achieving goals

• Executing: How you make things happen.

• Influencing: How you inspire action through others.

• Relationship Building: How you build and nurture strong relationships.

• Strategic Thinking: How you absorb, analyze, and apply to make informed decisions.

Here’s what makes CliftonStrengths so powerful: It doesn’t tell you WHAT you do, it explains HOW you do it. This strengths-based approach flips traditional thinking on “fixing weaknesses” and encourages you to amplify what you’re naturally great at. Gallup research shows that people who focus on their strengths are six times more likely to be engaged in their jobs, and three times more likely to report an excellent quality of life

How Strengths Create Community Impact

When leaders focus on their strengths, they’re not just enhancing their own effectiveness — they’re modeling this approach for their teams, boards, and organizations. Gallup research also shows that when teams focus on strengths, they experience

• Increased Productivity: Strengths-oriented teams are 12.5% more productive.

• Higher Engagement: Individuals are 7.8% more engaged when they get to use their strengths daily.

• Improved Retention: Employees who use their strengths are less likely to leave their roles.

In a community like Akron, where collaboration drives progress, the ripple effects of strengths-based leadership can spark real change. Leaders who lean into their natural talents inspire their teams to achieve more and create cultures of belonging and purpose.

Practical Steps to Start Leading with Strengths

1. Discover Your Strengths: If you haven’t yet, consider taking the CliftonStrengths assessment. It’s a quick but insightful tool that helps you understand your natural talents and HOW you lead.

2. Reflect on Your Impact: Think about how your strengths shape your leadership. Ask yourself: What challenges have I overcome by leaning into my strengths? Where can I lean in even more?

3. Apply Your Strengths: Bring your strengths to the forefront of your daily work. For example:

• If you have “Strategic,” use it to plan long-term goals.

• If you have “Relator,” use your deep connections to build trust and foster collaboration.

4. Encourage a Strengths-Based Culture: Share this approach with your team or board. Understanding each person’s strengths leads to better collaboration, smarter task delegation, and stronger relationships.

Building a Greater Akron, One Strength at a Time

When leaders bring renewed energy and purpose to their work by leaning into their strengths, that energy radiates throughout the community. Imagine what Akron could look like with leaders embracing their natural, unique talents. That’s the vision of strengths-based leadership — and it starts with you

Let’s lead Greater Akron together — one strength at a time. If you’re ready to explore your strengths or bring a strengths-based approach to your organization, let’s connect. Together, we can shape a stronger, more vibrant Akron!