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Unifying Teams with CliftonStrengths: Insights from the Business Focus Podcast

Writer's picture: Lead With CuriosityLead With Curiosity

Updated: Jan 30

When businesses talk about growth and success, the conversation often revolves around people. That's why Jen Pasquale, founder of Lead With Curiosity, was thrilled to join Angela Inzillo of Impact Business Solutions on the Business Focus Podcast, produced by the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, to discuss the transformative power of strengths-based development.


Stronger Teams Stronger Results Strengths
Click here to view the entire podcast.

From Training Roots to Strengths Leadership


Jen's career spans over two decades in training and development, with extensive experience in corporate training, curriculum design, and strategic communication. As a military spouse, she launched a business focused on helping spouses rediscover their identities after military life. This journey introduced her to Gallup's CliftonStrengths tool, igniting a passion that led to her certification as a Gallup Strengths Coach.


After operating for 3 years under a different name, in 2024, Jen founded Lead With Curiosity to bring strengths-based strategies to leaders and teams. Through her work, she aims to help organizations foster connection, collaboration, and meaningful cultural transformation.


What Are Strengths?


At the heart of Jen's work is Gallup's CliftonStrengths tool, which helps individuals uncover their unique talents and clarify their contributions. Unlike other assessments, CliftonStrengths explores 34 talent themes, offering rich insights that enhance self-awareness and confidence.


By giving teams a shared language, strengths work bridges communication gaps, resolves conflicts, and helps individuals see value in their differences. This approach creates opportunities for personal and professional growth while improving team dynamics.


Common Challenges and Strengths Solutions


On the podcast, Jen discussed three common scenarios where strengths-based development provides impactful solutions:


  1. Conflict-Prone Teams: Dysfunctional teams often struggle with collaboration and productivity. Strengths work reframes how team members perceive one another, helping them appreciate each other's talents and reduce friction.

  2. Growing Teams: Expanding teams face challenges in maintaining cohesion. Strengths-based workshops help new and existing members align, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

  3. Leadership Transitions: Leadership changes can disrupt team dynamics. Strengths-based coaching supports new leaders by helping them understand their team's strengths and aligning expectations, while also giving team members insight into their new leader's style.

Generational Differences and Strengths as an Equalizer


One topic explored in the conversation was the generational diversity within today's workplace. While age differences often influence work styles and preferences, strengths-based coaching provides a common language, uniting employees across generations. Shared strengths, such as "Deliberative" or "Strategic," transcend age, enabling employees to connect over shared approaches rather than focusing on differences.


Jen also highlighted innovative practices like reverse mentoring, where employees of all ages exchange knowledge and skills. This creates a culture of mutual learning and respect, fostering stronger relationships across generations.


Investing in Long-Term Change


While some organizations view strengths development as a one-time engagement, Jen emphasized the benefits of a sustained approach. Regular investment in strengths-based development drives cultural transformation, improving retention, engagement, and productivity. This long-term commitment demonstrates a company's dedication to its people and creates a thriving, connected workforce.


The Value of Community: Why Jen Joined the Reston Chamber


Jen praised the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce's collaborative and supportive culture, describing it as a place where professionals genuinely look out for one another. Her involvement in the Chamber has already helped her connect with others who are equally passionate about fostering growth in their teams and businesses.


Final Thoughts

 Strengths work isn't just about individual growth—it's about creating high-performing teams that are confident, connected, and collaborative. Whether you're leading a small team or a large organization, investing in your people is key to success.


Ready to talk about how strengths development can impact your team's productivity & performance?

Let's unlock the potential of your team, one strength at a time.





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