Individualization: An Eye for the Unique

People exceptionally talented in the Individualization theme are intrigued with the unique qualities of each person. They have a gift for figuring out how different people can work together productively.

Clifton StrengthsFinder

Those high in Individualization can naturally spot out what is unique about each person. They innately notice and catalog information about an individual, quickly figuring out who they are and what makes them tick. These folks also tend to make those around them feel valued by honoring their uniqueness in terms of a catered approach.

One role those with high Individualization play is a strengths-spotter; They have the ability to see someone’s strengths easily and aid them in sharpening these talents. This is the reason Gallup writes, “like a casting director, they [those high in Individualization] use their intelligence about people to position them to do what they do best.” Because of their natural ability to “read” people well, those with this theme tend to see how to best place people within a group or team.

In our organization, 11.3% of our mentors have Individualization in their top 5, and 10.0% of our mentees have it in their top 5. To help each other honor this theme, target questions and conversation around the uniqueness of humanity. Ask your mentee to describe their best friend or a relative. Ask them what qualities they admire in a celebrity or leader. Even ask them what they have noticed about you from your meetings. Honor the people in your lives by writing letters and notes to friends, family members, and mentors, all the while pointing out their unique qualities and contributions. By drawing on these observations your mentee has about others, you will help them see their Individualization as a potential strength that will greatly benefit them in addition to those around them.

-Tess

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Strength Based Mentoring

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