Relationship Builders are the glue that holds the organization together. Whether in a family or a part of Mission Control, relationship builders are the uniting force that bring 1 + 1 + 1 together in a way that is more powerful than just three contributors. What could your team accomplish with someone like this on the roster?
The great news is that more of the population possess relationship building skills that any of the other four domains of leadership. Of the almost 14 million people who have taken the CliftonStrengths® assessment worldwide, relationship building themes are the most commonly occurring at 31% of the results. A natural talent for many, it continues to prove what sociologists have known for years; the human race is one designed for community.
Often labeled the “soft skills”, people with a talent to engage others may be less obvious than the Influencers and those focused on executing. Great at listening, it may take some time for them to speak up in a meeting. When they do speak up it may be to include others who have not yet been heard or to connect two disagreeing parties. The Relationship Builder will find the common ground to promote forward progress.
The Relationship Builder will always make sure that people are considered in the construct of a project or initiative. The themes of relationship building can soften the edge of the bottom line focus of the executing themes and their talents help the Influencer move from “me” to “team.”
Coupling relationship building with strategic thinking and you have a thoughtful listener who will gather all the possibilities for consideration before sharing ideas. With time to think through the alternatives, they will have addressed the impact of various strategies on both people and the project.
You’ll find your Relationship Builders by noticing who others gather around. Their office door is open and visitors come seeking input or just a listening ear. This is often perceived as wasted time by those with a bottom line and task focus. But if you want a team that performs, your Relationship Builders need to be a valued participant. Often the quiet heroes, they will know the pulse and mood of the organization and are key to building a high-performing team.