How to Use CliftonStrengths Test in Coaching: A Guide

Introduction

As a coach, understanding your client’s unique strengths is key to helping them unlock their full potential. The CliftonStrengths test provides a science-based method for identifying these strengths. Developed by Donald O. Clifton, known as the “Father of Strengths-Based Psychology,” the assessment was created in partnership with the Gallup organization.

Whether you’re working with individuals aiming to excel in their careers, teams looking to enhance collaboration, or leaders striving for better performance, the CliftonStrengths test can provide the insights needed to tailor your coaching strategies effectively.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to integrate the CliftonStrengths test into your coaching practice, ensuring you can use the results to create personalized development plans that resonate with your clients. From interpreting the test’s results to applying them in real-world coaching scenarios, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make the most of the CliftonStrengths test in your coaching practice.

What is the CliftonStrengths™ Assessment?

The CliftonStrengths™ assessment is a powerful tool that allows you to help individuals and teams identify and develop their unique talents. 

Unlike traditional coaching approaches that often focus on correcting weaknesses, CliftonStrengths™ focuses on the importance of identifying and maximizing your clients’ natural talents. This strengths-based method has transformed the coaching sphere by offering a more targeted approach to personal and professional development.

The core of CliftonStrengths™ lies in its ability to reveal the unique strengths of your clients, allowing you as a coach to tailor your strategies for greater impact. By understanding these strengths, you can guide your clients to align their goals with their natural abilities, leading to more effective and fulfilling outcomes. 

This approach shifts the focus from a one-size-fits-all mentality to a more personalized coaching experience that builds on what your clients already do well, driving growth and success more organically.

How Does the CliftonStrengths™ Test Work in Coaching

The assessment involves 177 paired statements that evaluate different attributes, helping you to identify your clients’ top strengths. By understanding these strengths, you can tailor your coaching strategies to enhance personal and team effectiveness, guiding your clients toward greater success.

Paired statements for evaluation

Each of the 177 paired statements in the CliftonStrengths™ assessment is designed to draw out specific strengths in your clients. This method ensures a comprehensive evaluation of their natural talents and inclinations, giving you the insights needed to craft personalized coaching plans.

Detailed reports

Once your clients complete the assessment, they receive detailed reports that highlight their top strengths. These reports are invaluable in your coaching process, providing you with the information needed to focus on what your clients do best and how they can use these strengths to achieve their goals.

Improving effectiveness

The insights gained from the CliftonStrengths™ assessment allow you to enhance both personal and team effectiveness in your coaching practice. By understanding and using your client’ s strengths, you can help them reach their full potential, create more cohesive teams, and drive better results in both their personal and professional lives.

How Does CliftonStrengths™ Assessment Differ from Other Personality Tests?

You’ve probably come across personality tests like Myers-Briggs or the Enneagram. But here’s the thing: CliftonStrengths™ isn’t a personality test. It’s a performance-based tool designed to help you understand your clients’ natural skills.

While personality tests like Myers-Briggs can provide useful insights, many people struggle with applying that information effectively. They often categorize individuals into specific types or identify weaknesses by giving broad feedback, such as whether you’re introverted or extroverted, which can be hard to put into practice.

The CliftonStrengths™ assessment gives you detailed insights into each characteristic, helping you pinpoint where your clients have the most potential to develop and enhance their strengths.

Let’s look at each of these reasons:

1. Strengths-based focus

Unlike other assessments that might focus on areas for improvement or label individuals into fixed categories, CliftonStrengths™ focuses on identifying and developing what your clients naturally do best. This strengths-based approach encourages personal growth by building on existing talents, rather than trying to fix perceived weaknesses.

2. Practical application in coaching

The insights gained from the CliftonStrengths™ assessment are highly actionable. As a coach, you can use these insights to create customized development plans that align with your client’s unique strengths. This practical application sets CliftonStrengths™ apart from more theoretical or diagnostic personality tests, allowing you to deliver coaching that is both targeted and effective.

3. Tailored to individual and team growth

While many personality tests are designed for individual self-reflection, CliftonStrengths™ is equally valuable for team dynamics. The assessment helps you identify not only individual strengths but also how these strengths can be combined to create a more effective and collaborative team environment. This dual focus makes CliftonStrengths™ a versatile tool for coaching both individuals and groups.

The CliftonStrengths™ assessment is a game-changer because it centers on strengths, practical application in coaching, and ability to improve both individual and team growth. Unlike other personality tests, it is an indispensable tool that belongs in your coaching toolkit.

Read: 17 Best Mindset Coaching Tools for Personal Growth [2024]

4. Domains of Strengths According to Gallup

Gallup categorizes the CliftonStrengths™ into four main domains: Executing, Influencing, Relationship Building, and Strategic Thinking. Each domain represents a different aspect of personal and team strengths.

Executing

People with strengths in the Executing domain excel at turning ideas into reality. They are adept at prioritizing tasks and moving forward efficiently. Key strengths in this domain include:

• Achiever: Driven to achieve and accomplish tasks.
• Arranger: Capable of organizing and arranging resources for maximum productivity.
• Belief: Strongly held values that influence their actions.
• Consistency: Desire to treat people equally and fairly.
• Deliberative: Careful decision-making process.
• Discipline: Love of routine and structure.
• Focus: Clear direction and purpose in their work.
• Responsibility: Commitment to follow through on promises.
• Restorative: Skillful at solving problems.

Influencing

Individuals with strengths in the Influencing domain are skilled at selling ideas and ensuring their team is heard. They are persuasive and can motivate others. Key strengths include:

• Activator: Ability to make things happen by turning thoughts into action.
• Command: Taking charge and making decisions.
• Communication: Effective at conveying ideas and information.
• Competition: Striving to win and be the best.
• Maximizer: Focusing on strengths to stimulate personal and group excellence.
• Self-assurance: Confidence in their abilities.
• Significance: Seeking to make a significant impact.
• Woo: Winning others over and making connections.

Relationship building

Strengths in the Relationship Building domain help create cohesive teams and embrace diversity. These individuals excel at connecting with others and fostering a supportive environment. Key strengths include:

• Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Connectedness: Understanding the interconnectedness of all things.
• Developer: Recognizing and cultivating the potential in others.
• Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others.
• Harmony: Seeking areas of agreement and consensus.
• Includer: Accepting others and making them feel a part of the group.
• Individualization: Seeing each person’s unique qualities.
• Positivity: Having an upbeat and optimistic attitude.
• Relator: Building deep and meaningful relationships.

Strategic thinking

Individuals with strengths in the Strategic Thinking domain help the team make better future decisions and focus on results. They are analytical and visionary. Key strengths include:

• Analytical: Examining all factors and data.
• Context: Understanding the present by researching its history.
• Futuristic: Imagining and inspiring others with a vision of the future.
• Ideation: Generating innovative ideas.
• Input: Gathering and archiving information.
• Intellection: Enjoying intellectual discussions.
• Learner: Having a great desire to learn and continuously improve.
• Strategic: Creating alternative ways to proceed.

CliftonStrengths™: A Comprehensive List

The CliftonStrengths™ assessment identifies 34 strengths, categorized into the four domains. Understanding these strengths can help you more effectively.

Executing

Achiever: Achievers are driven by a constant need for accomplishment. They have a relentless energy to complete tasks and set new goals. Their motivation often inspires those around them to push through challenges and reach new heights.

Arranger: People with the Arranger strength are adept at organizing resources and people to maximize productivity. They can easily adjust plans and workflows to adapt to changing conditions, making them excellent at managing complex projects.

Belief: Individuals with a strong Belief strength have core values that drive their actions. These values give them a sense of purpose and direction, and they are passionate about staying true to what they believe in. This makes them reliable and trustworthy.

Consistency: Those with Consistency strength value fairness and equality. They strive to treat everyone the same and create stable environments where everyone has the same opportunities. This makes them dependable and impartial.

Deliberative: Deliberative individuals are careful and vigilant decision-makers. They take time to weigh the risks and consider all factors before making choices, ensuring thoughtful and well-considered outcomes.

Discipline: Discipline is characterized by a love for structure and organization. People with this strength thrive on routine and predictability, which helps them maintain order and efficiency in their work and personal lives.

Focus: Focused individuals have a clear sense of direction and priorities. They concentrate on their goals and pay attention to what needs to be done to achieve them. This helps them to avoid distractions and accomplish objectives effectively.

Responsibility: Those with Responsibility strength are committed and conscientious. They take ownership of their actions and commitments, ensuring they follow through on their promises and obligations.

Restorative: People with Restorative strength excel at solving problems. They enjoy identifying issues and finding solutions, often bringing a fresh perspective to challenges. Their problem-solving skills are valuable in any team setting.

Influencing

Activator: Activators are catalysts for action. They are eager to get things started and are not afraid to take the initiative. Their enthusiasm and energy help to motivate and drive teams forward.

Command: Individuals with Command strength have a strong presence and take control of situations. They are decisive and assertive, often leading others with confidence and clarity.

Communication: People with Communication strength excel at expressing ideas and information clearly. They are often persuasive and engaging, making them effective at storytelling and presentations.

Competition: Those with Competition strength are driven by a desire to win and be the best. They thrive on measuring their performance against others and are motivated by achieving top results.

Maximizer: Maximizers focus on strengths to stimulate excellence. They seek to transform good into great by honing and refining talents, both in themselves and others.

Self-assurance: Self-assured individuals have confidence in their abilities and decisions. They trust their judgment and are comfortable taking risks, often leading with conviction and certainty.

Significance: People with Significant strength seek to make a meaningful impact. They want to be recognized and appreciated for their contributions and strive to be seen as influential and important.

Woo: Woo stands for “Winning Others Over.” Individuals with this strength are adept at meeting new people and making connections. They enjoy building relationships and expanding their network.

Relationship building

Adaptability: Adaptable individuals are flexible and embrace change. They live in the moment and are comfortable adjusting to new circumstances and challenges.

Connectedness: People with Connectedness strength have a deep sense of connection to others and the world. They believe in the interdependence of all things and often see patterns and relationships that others might miss.

Developer: Developers see the potential in others and are eager to help them grow. They are patient and supportive, often playing a mentoring role in helping people reach their full potential.

Empathy: Those with Empathy strength can sense and understand the feelings of others. They are compassionate and can provide emotional support, making them effective at building trust and rapport.

Harmony: Individuals with Harmony strength seek consensus and avoid conflict. They strive to find common ground and build agreement, fostering a cooperative and peaceful environment.

Includer: Includers make efforts to include everyone. They are aware of those who feel left out and strive to bring them into the group, creating a sense of belonging and inclusion.

Individualization: People with Individualization strengths recognize the unique qualities of each person. They are adept at understanding individual differences and tailoring their approach to fit each person’s needs.

Positivity: Positive individuals have an upbeat and optimistic attitude. They can inspire and uplift others, creating an environment of enthusiasm and encouragement.

Relator: Relators build deep and meaningful relationships. They are loyal and value close connections, often fostering strong and lasting bonds with others.

Strategic thinking

Analytical: Analytical individuals seek to understand the underlying reasons behind situations and problems. They are logical and objective, often using data and analysis to make informed decisions.

Context: People with Context strength look to the past to understand the present. They value history and use it to inform their decisions and actions.

Futuristic: Those with Futuristic strength are visionary and forward-thinking. They imagine and inspire others with their visions of what could be, often driving innovation and progress.

Ideation: Individuals with Ideation strength are creative and love to generate new ideas. They are often seen as innovative thinkers who can bring fresh perspectives and solutions.

Input: People with Input strength have a thirst for knowledge. They collect information, resources, and experiences, often becoming experts in their fields.

Intellection: Intellection involves a deep love for thinking and intellectual discussions. Individuals with this strength enjoy exploring ideas and engaging in thoughtful reflection.

Learner: Learners have a strong desire to gain knowledge and improve continuously. They are enthusiastic about new experiences and enjoy mastering new skills.

Strategic: Strategic individuals excel at planning and creating alternative ways to proceed. They can quickly spot patterns and issues, making them effective at navigating complex situations and making sound decisions.

How Do You Take the CliftonStrengths™ Test?

As a coach, guiding your clients through the CliftonStrengths™ test is a straightforward yet impactful process. Here’s how you can help them take the test and maximize its benefits in your coaching sessions:

Preparing your clients

Before your clients take the CliftonStrengths™ test, it’s essential to prepare them by explaining the purpose and value of the assessment. Emphasize that the test is designed to uncover their unique strengths, which will serve as the foundation for your coaching process. Encourage them to approach the test with an open mind and answer the questions as honestly as possible, reflecting their true feelings and behaviors.

Taking the test

The CliftonStrengths™ test is taken online and consists of 177 paired statements. Your clients will be asked to choose which statement best describes them within a set time frame for each pair. The entire test takes approximately 30-40 minutes to complete. Remind your clients that there are no right or wrong answers— the goal is to capture their natural responses.

Interpreting the results

Once the test is completed, your clients will receive a detailed report outlining their top strengths. As a coach, your role is to help them understand these results and how they can apply their strengths to achieve their goals. Schedule a session to go over the report together, discussing how each strength can be leveraged in their personal and professional lives.

After interpreting the results, the next step is to integrate these insights into your coaching sessions. Let’s see how it is done.

How to Apply CliftonStrengths™ Results in Coaching

As a coach, once you have your client’s CliftonStrengths™ results, the next step is to effectively integrate these insights into your coaching sessions. These results can be used to tailor your coaching approach, enhance your client’s performance, and develop strategies that align with their natural strengths.

Integrating strengths into coaching sessions and goals

Understanding your client’s strengths allows you to align their coaching goals with what they do best. This alignment not only increases their productivity and effectiveness but also enhances their overall satisfaction with their progress. For example, if your client has “Focus” as one of their strengths, you might prioritize coaching strategies that help them concentrate on long-term goals and break down tasks into manageable steps.

Enhancing team dynamics through strengths-based coaching

If you’re coaching a team or working with a client who leads a team, use the CliftonStrengths™ results to build a more cohesive and effective team dynamic. By understanding each team member’s strengths, you can help your client create a balanced team where each person’s strengths complement the others. 

For instance, pairing a team member strong in “Strategic” with someone who excels in “Executing” can ensure that innovative ideas are efficiently turned into action.

Developing personalized leadership strategies

Use the strengths identified in the CliftonStrengths™ results to develop personalized leadership strategies for your clients. For example, if your client has a high “Command” strength, you can coach them on how to use their decisiveness to lead with confidence. Alternatively, if they have strong “Empathy,” you can guide them to harness this strength to build deeper connections with their team and provide more supportive leadership.

By applying CliftonStrengths™ results in your coaching practice, you can create a more personalized, effective coaching experience that empowers your clients to harness their natural strengths and achieve their goals.

Some Common Criticisms of the Assessments in Coaching

While the CliftonStrengths™ assessment offers numerous benefits for your coaching practice, you should be aware of some common criticisms that it faces.

1. Focusing solely on existing strengths may limit development

As a coach, you may encounter the argument that focusing only on your clients’ existing strengths could hinder their ability to develop new competencies needed for different challenges. While strengths-based coaching is powerful, it’s also important to encourage your clients to step out of their comfort zones and develop skills that may not come as naturally to them.

2. Strengths may not significantly distinguish performance

Critics suggest that the strengths identified by the CliftonStrengths™ assessment might not significantly differentiate between high and low performers in certain contexts. As a coach, it’s vital to consider the broader context in which your client operates and how their strengths can be used most effectively, rather than relying solely on the strengths report.

3. Focusing on less effective clients’ strengths could be resource-intensive

Investing time and resources to develop the strengths of clients who are struggling might not always yield significant returns. As a coach, it’s crucial to balance your focus on strengths with an honest assessment of where your client might need to develop additional skills or address key weaknesses.

4. Over-emphasis on strengths can lead to complacency

An over-emphasis on strengths might lead some clients to become complacent, neglecting areas where improvement is necessary. As a coach, while you’re building on strengths, you should also help your clients to remain aware and address any critical weaknesses that could hinder their progress.

5. Ignoring weaknesses can limit overall growth

While focusing on strengths is a cornerstone of the CliftonStrengths™ approach, completely ignoring weaknesses could be detrimental to your client’s overall development. It’s important to strike a balance in your coaching practice, helping your clients to capitalize on their strengths while also addressing any significant gaps that could impact their performance.

By being mindful of these criticisms, you can apply the CliftonStrengths™ assessment more effectively in your coaching, ensuring a well-rounded approach that drives both strength and growth in your clients.

Conclusion

Understanding and applying the CliftonStrengths™ method is a powerful way to improve leadership and team performance. By focusing on individual and team strengths, you can create a more productive and harmonious work environment. 

Despite some criticisms, the strengths-based approach offers valuable insights for personal and professional growth. Remember, each of your clients have a unique identity. As their coach, you already recognize their individuality. They don’t need to change who they are to succeed; they just need to understand themselves better. This is where using tools like CliftonStrengths™ test come into the picture to assist you.

Talking about tests, if you want to test your coaching skills, try this reflective self-assessment quiz designed by Simply.Coach. 

With Simply.Coach, you can digitize and streamline your processes, save time on administrative work, and prioritize client care.

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