
Here's something most people don't realize: the best person to assess your professional strengths isn't you - it's actually the people around you. I know that might sound strange, but think about it. When was the last time you sat down and really thought about what makes you great at what you do?
The Truth About Self-Assessment
Most of us are either too critical of ourselves or (occasionally) too generous. We focus on what we think we should be good at, instead of recognizing our natural talents. But there's a simple method I use with my clients that reveals your true professional strengths - and it starts with just a piece of paper.
The 15-Minute Assessment Method
Here's exactly what to do:
Grab a piece of paper and draw two columns
Label one column "Strengths/Transferrable Skills"
Label the other column "Opportunities/Gaps"
Set a timer for 15 minutes
Write down everything you can think of in each column
Repeat this exercise twice in one week
Why twice? Because the first time, you'll write down the obvious things. The second time, you'll dig deeper and discover insights you missed initially.
But here's where it gets interesting - your self-assessment is just the beginning.
Add some of these strengths to your career clarity canvas.
Tap Into Your Network's Perspective
The real gold comes from asking others. Your network sees strengths in you that you might take for granted. Here's who to ask:
Current and former colleagues
Managers (past and present)
Project stakeholders you've worked with
Clients or customers
Professional mentors
Friends who've seen you work
Family members who understand your career
Industry peers you've collaborated with
The Right Questions to Ask
When you reach out to these people, don't just ask "What am I good at?" Instead, use these thought-provoking questions:
"If someone asked you to describe my professional strengths, what would you say?"
"What type of problems do you think I solve best?"
"When you need help with something, what makes you think of me?"
"What skills or qualities set me apart from others?"
"Can you recall a time when I particularly impressed you? What stood out?"
"What areas do you think I could develop further?"
"In what type of role or situation do you think I would thrive?"
"What unique perspective or approach do I bring to challenges?"
"If you were building a team, what role would you want me to play?"
"What are my blind spots that I might not see myself?"
Making the Most of These Conversations
When you have these discussions:
Take notes (you'll want to reference them later)
Ask for specific examples
Listen for patterns across different conversations
Pay attention to surprising insights
Stay open to constructive feedback
Don't defend or explain away their observations
Analyzing Your Findings
After gathering all this information:
Look for recurring themes in the feedback
Compare others' perceptions with your self-assessment
Note any surprising strengths you hadn't recognized
Identify gaps that multiple people mention
Pay attention to the types of problems people say you solve well
Turning Insights into Action
Now you can use this information to:
Update your resume to highlight your confirmed strengths
Identify roles that leverage your natural talents
Plan your professional development around real opportunities
Craft your elevator pitch using others' words about you
Target jobs where your strengths are valued most
Use these keywords in your resume and cover letter
The Bottom Line
Understanding your professional strengths isn't just about self-reflection - it's about gathering insights from the people who've seen you in action. Their perspective is invaluable because they see the value you bring in ways you might not recognize yourself.
Don't skip the self-assessment step, but don't stop there either. The combination of your own insights and feedback from others will give you a complete picture of your professional superpowers - and your opportunities for growth.
Remember, this isn't just a one-time exercise. As you grow in your career, your strengths will evolve. Make it a habit to check in with yourself and others at least once a year. Your professional growth depends on it.