Values reflect a person’s sense of right and wrong or what “ought” to be. “Equal rights for all” and “People should be treated with respect and dignity” are representative of values. Values tend to influence attitudes and behavior.
For example, if you value equal rights for all and you go to work for an organization that treats its managers much better than it does its workers, you may form the attitude that the company is an unfair place to work; consequently, you may not produce well or may perhaps leave the company. It is likely that if the company had had a more egalitarian policy, your attitude and behaviors would have been more positive. (source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Value_(personal_and_cultural ).
Every talent indicates a set of underlying values and beliefs.
For example, someone with the talent theme of Relator assumes loyalty and trust as some of his/her values. The talent theme gives us clues as to what a person could value most. Because values causes behavior, it is very important that we get clear on what we value.
If we say we value respect, it could mean that I respect others and I also expect others to respect me. But what does respect look like? What BEHAVIOR would I expect that shows me that you respect me, or that I respect you? Because respect can have different meanings for different age groups, culture groups, etc.
To get clear in your communication and expectations with others, look at your talents. Which values are important to you, based on your values? Ask yourself: what types of behaviors fit those values? How can you show me that it is a value for you too?
Someone with the talent of Achiever, values hard work. But what does hard work mean and what does it look like? Does it mean you have to work a 18-hour day? Or does it mean that you work smart and get everything done within 8 hours of work?
WHAT BEHAVIOR FITS YOUR VALUES?
Someone with the talent of Belief values unselfishness. Does unselfishness mean taking a lower salary to provide scope for others? Or does unselfishness mean that you give your last clothes away so the mother next to the road can provide warmth for her child? What behavior fits this value, in YOUR opinion?
BOTTOM LINE: Getting clear on your talents, what values it ignites in you and what behaviors fits those values, will make you a better collaborator, colleague or leader!
Dries Lombaard is the co-owner of Strengths Institute South Africa, and has more than 7000 hours of Strengths Coaching experience over the last decade. He is leading a vibrant and growing network of Strengths Coaches in Southern Africa, and works with corporate and multinational leadership and management teams and C-level leaders as a Strengths Coach and training facilitator.
