Recently, I had the honor of being part of the Soundings® and Smart Meetings s’ Bright Scholarship cohort, a transformative experience for women in the event industry. As part of this program, I joined an incredible group of women at the Smart Women’s Summit in Las Vegas, where we delved into our unique skillsets, learning more about ourselves and each other in ways that have been, frankly, nothing short of transformational.
One of the highlights of this experience was the Clifton Strengths Assessment, a powerful tool that reveals our unique blend of strengths. Our cohort gathered over lunch to share our top five strengths, exploring how our strongest qualities shape our professional journeys and lives. But the Clifton Strengths Assessment does more than just spotlight your top five strengths — it ranks all 34, showing you a mirror of who you are at your core.
For me personally, this assessment has been illuminating. As a CEO and a leader, I wasn’t surprised to find that my leading strengths were Archiver, Learner, Significance, Futuristic, and Responsibility. These qualities reflect my drive for purpose, my passion for progress, and my deep-rooted sense of accountability. But what did surprise me? My first relationship-based strength was all the way down at number 18.
While this isn’t a weakness by any means, it’s a reminder that our greatest impact often comes from leaning into our strongest qualities — but also knowing where to look for support when we need it.
Soundings Elevate’s work in researching strengths in event professionals is insightful, showing that we, as an industry, have some common strengths, such as Adaptability, Strategic Thinking, and Activator, all of which we use to create seamless experiences for our clients. Here’s how you, too, can leverage your unique strengths and acknowledge the ones that are less dominant to grow in the event industry.
1. Embrace Your Signature Strengths: They’re Your Superpowers
Your top strengths are where you naturally shine. For me, being an Archiver and Learner means I love to gather knowledge and record meaningful information, which helps me make better decisions and foster innovation. As an Achiever and Futuristic thinker, I also look forward — planning for the future and setting ambitious goals.
For others in the cohort, the top strengths might include traits like Harmony, Empathy, or Connectedness, which help them excel at building relationships and understanding clients on a personal level. Soundings Elevate has identified that many event professionals gravitate toward strengths related to adaptability and problem-solving, which are essential in our field.
How to Tap In: Make your top strengths the cornerstone of your professional strategy. Lean on these traits whenever possible, and make them part of your personal brand. If you’re a natural Strategic thinker, for example, use this skill to create standout event strategies. If your top strength is Positivity, bring that energy to your team and clients, especially in high-pressure situations.
2. Recognize and Work With Your Lesser-Accessed Strengths
Just because a strength isn’t high on your list doesn’t mean it’s a weakness. My first relationship-based strength was all the way down at number 18, showing me that while I’m driven by learning, achievement, and the future, connecting on a personal level doesn’t come as naturally. But knowing this doesn’t hold me back; it helps me make intentional choices to build relationships where I might otherwise focus solely on tasks.
One insight from Soundings Elevate’s research is that the fast-paced, detail-oriented nature of the events industry can sometimes shift our focus toward logistical strengths over relational ones. However, we know that lasting client relationships are crucial, so it’s important to cultivate this aspect of our work, even if it takes conscious effort.
How to Tap In: When you’re aware of these lesser-accessed strengths, consider them areas of growth. You don’t have to overhaul yourself, but try practicing this “stretch” skill in small ways. For me, this might mean intentionally scheduling more one-on-one time with clients or prioritizing moments to check in with team members on a personal level. Small steps over time can help develop these strengths further.
3. Find and Collaborate With Those Who Complement Your Strengths
The beauty of the Clifton Strengths Assessment is that it shows us our uniqueness but also highlights the strengths of others. The best teams are those that bring together diverse talents. By knowing where your strengths lie and where they don’t, you can build a support system with people who complement you.
If you’re a natural Activator (someone who loves taking ideas into action quickly), teaming up with a Deliberative type who’s skilled at careful planning can create a balanced approach. For example, in my work, I lean on team members who excel in relational strengths to support areas where they’re stronger, ensuring a well-rounded approach that benefits our clients.
How to Tap In: Identify the strengths you lack and partner with colleagues who can fill those gaps. Not only does this relieve you of the pressure to excel in every area, but it also fosters trust and collaboration. In turn, these partnerships create a team that is stronger than any individual member.
4. Remember, Strengths Change Over Time: Keep Checking In
One of the most surprising insights from our cohort was how strengths evolve. Soundings Elevate notes that life events, career shifts, and new experiences can shift our strengths profile. As our lives and careers progress, our strengths may change, and so will our needs. That’s why regular self-reflection is key to understanding where we’re growing and where we may need new support.
How to Tap In: Consider checking in with your strengths periodically, especially after significant career or life changes. Whether it’s through formal assessments like Clifton Strengths or simply reflecting on what energizes you, understanding your current strengths can help you set intentional goals and foster personal and professional growth.
5. Leverage Strengths-Based Networking: Use Your Strengths to Build Authentic Connections
Networking can feel like a chore if it doesn’t come naturally, but approaching it through the lens of your strengths can make it easier. If you’re Analytical, seek out conversations that let you ask thoughtful questions and learn about new ideas. If Positivity is one of your strengths, bring that energy to each interaction and leave people feeling uplifted.
For me, knowing that Significance and Responsibility are strong suits, I find that framing conversations around purpose-driven goals and shared commitments can make connections more meaningful and engaging.
How to Tap In: Play to your strengths when networking. Instead of trying to be something you’re not, approach networking as a space to leverage what makes you unique. Not only does this make interactions more enjoyable, but it also helps you stand out and build connections that feel authentic.
Closing Thoughts: Tapping Into Your Unique Blueprint for Success
Being part of the Soundings Elevate and Smart Meetings cohort has been a powerful reminder that our strengths are like a personal blueprint, unique to us and invaluable in our professional lives. For event professionals, this means knowing that you have specific strengths that drive your success, as well as areas where growth or support from others can make a huge difference.
Our industry thrives on creativity, adaptability, and resilience, and by truly understanding ourselves, we can make the most of these traits, showing up more intentionally for ourselves and our clients. Embracing the Clifton Strengths Assessment has reminded me that, just as no two events are the same, no two professionals are either — and our diversity is what makes this industry so powerful.
virsitour is here to support you on this journey of self-discovery and growth, not only as your tech companion but as a community. Together, we’re redefining how event professionals can thrive, drawing on our strengths to navigate both the personal and professional.
If you haven’t yet explored your strengths, I highly encourage it — you may be surprised by what you learn about yourself. Here’s to all of us embracing who we are and who we’re becoming!