How Strengths Can Benefit Your Business

On a recent Called to Coach, we spoke with Nicole Sedlacek, Executive Director of Holt County (Nebraska) Economic Development.

Nicole began her work with strengths as a guide during the pilot of Gallup's Entrepreneur Acceleration System (EAS) in 2012 (now Builder Profile 10, or BP10). The system was designed to help small to medium-sized businesses take a strengths-based approach to business development and economic growth.

Nicole's job responsibilities require her to constantly think of ways to help create new jobs, while keeping retention rates high in Holt County. By adopting a strengths-based approach, Nicole has helped provide business owners and managers with the tools to better develop their employees' strengths, fit them in the right roles, and achieve maximum output.

Using Strengths to Land a Job

Providing a great example of strengths in action, Nicole described a scenario where a client was asked, "What are your strengths?" in a job interview. While this question often causes people to stumble, this individual answered it in stride, talking specifically about how her high Relator theme could benefit the company. She eventually received a job offer, and is now putting her strengths to work.

Working With Entrepreneurs

As part of Nebraska's economic development, Nicole works closely with entrepreneurs, helping them maximize their strengths within their business roles. However, not all entrepreneurs welcome a strengths-based approach to running their businesses. When she experiences pushback, Nicole coaches them on how to fit their strengths into their business plan and on what kinds of partnerships would be most beneficial.

To learn more about Nicole and her coaching experience, watch the full video above.

Nicole Sedlacek's Top 5 CliftonStrengths are Input, Learner, Achiever, Focus and Discipline.