Strengths Based Approach
Understanding
Another concept that was applied was assigning tasks using the strengths of the team members. This method of task assignments would need the team to know each other well as it requires every member to be aware of each other’s strengths and weaknesses. By assigning tasks that are best suited for a team member, it ensures that the full potential of the team member is fully utilised. This also means that the task would be completed with maximum efficiency as the member doing the task is proficient in the task.
Application
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In terms of task allocation, my team decided to allocate based on strengths instead of basing it on member’s availability. This is to ensure that the task completed was done with maximum efficiency. For instance, Sofiya and I had experience facilitating similar events as we are both members of IMHope. Hence, we were allocated to facilitate segments such as games and checking in with the beneficiaries.
On the other hand, Damien is better at numbers and is more logical. Which was why he was the team’s treasurer. Another instance where we utilized our strengths was the live translation during the actual event. As live translation was necessary for participants who did not understand English, we had to allocate members who were fluent in Chinese to do so. The members who are fluent were Natalie, Ernest and I. Hence, during the event we each took turns translating the English instructions.
Values and Challenges
I think that using a strengths based approach was a good decision that my team made. This ensured that every team member’s abilities were fully utilized. This would increase member’s morale as we were doing tasks that we were familiar and good at. This also ensured that the deliverables were of high quality as the member that worked on it was proficient in it. Using a strengths based approach also made allocation of tasks easier as every member had a specific skill set for each task.
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A drawback of this approach is that it could affect team member’s personal schedules. As tasks are not based on availability, the member who is good at the task could be busy with other projects and be unable to fully commit. This could lower the quality of work and stress out the team members even more. Furthermore, using this approach means that team members would not be able to step out of their comfort zone. As they will be doing tasks they are used to, there will be limited learning opportunities for team members.