Your Individualization Talent: Seeing What Sets Others Apart
"Always remember that you are absolutely unique. Just like everyone else." – Margaret Mead
Have you ever met someone who instantly notices what makes each person special? Someone who seems to intuitively understand how different personalities, strengths, and needs can come together to create something beautiful? That’s the gift of the "Individualization" talent theme. People with this CliftonStrengths®️ theme don’t just appreciate differences—they thrive on them.
If "Individualization", part of the Relationship Building Domain, is one of your top talents, you likely have a natural eye for what sets people apart. You instinctively tune into the unique qualities, preferences, and quirks of others, and you often know how to bring out the best in them. Whether it’s personalizing a birthday gift, tailoring your coaching approach, or building the perfect team, your ability to honor individuality creates deep connection and trust.
"Individualization" isn’t one of my top talents, but I’ve had the privilege of coaching several people who lead with it. One client stands out. We’d only had 2 or 3 sessions together when, during one meeting, he was babysitting a friend’s dog. He started our call by introducing me to the pup. Here’s what struck me about that: I absolutely love animals. I’m not even sure I’d ever told him that. Maybe he remembered a passing comment. Maybe he just picked up on it intuitively. Either way, in that moment, he tapped into something that made me feel seen, heard, and valued. It was a subtle gesture, but a powerful one. A real example of how "Individualization" shows up in meaningful connection.
If you lead with "Individualization", people might often say, “You just get me.” You might be the go-to person when a team needs to match the right people to the right roles, or when a friend feels misunderstood. Your ability to make others feel like they matter (because they do) helps shift dynamics, build bridges, and create environments where everyone has the chance to thrive.
Individualization in Action
Individualization vs. Empathy: Both build connection, but “Empathy”, also from the Relationship Building Domain, feels what others are feeling, while “Individualization” sees what makes someone distinct and leverages that.
Individualization vs. Developer: Both support people’s growth, but “Developer”, from the Relationship Building Domain, is drawn to incremental progress, while “Individualization” focuses on tailoring the right conditions and support based on each person’s uniqueness.
Leverage Your Individualization Talent
Lead with Individualization
Personalize your approach in leadership, coaching, or relationships. You’re at your best when you tailor your support to each person.
Offer insights that help others see what makes them special. Your observations can boost confidence and clarity.
Build inclusive spaces where everyone’s differences are respected and celebrated.
Work with Individualization
Look for environments that value customization and flexibility. Rigid, one-size-fits-all systems will be frustrating for you.
Team up with people who bring structure (like those with Discipline or Consistency) to help balance your individualized approach when needed.
Advocate for people. Your talent makes you a powerful voice for recognizing potential and honoring differences.
Live with Individualization
Notice how your talent shows up in everyday moments like choosing the perfect gift or adapting your communication style.
Set boundaries around your energy. Because you invest deeply in others, you might experience some fatigue being around people for too long. Make sure you feel seen too.
Remember that not everyone values uniqueness the way you do. Patiently help others understand the power of a personalized approach.
Coach Someone with Individualization
Ask them what they notice about others. It’s often insightful and affirming.
Help them see that their gift for customization is a leadership strength, not just a “nice-to-have.”
Encourage them to trust their instincts when working with people. Their gut often knows what others need.
Discover the Strength of Your Individualization Talent
Do you find yourself instinctively tuning into what makes people tick? Do you believe that everyone deserves to be understood, not generalized? “Individualization” might be one of your top talents.
The CliftonStrengths® assessment can help you uncover and embrace your unique talents. Learn how to use your gifts with confidence and clarity.
👉 Discover Your Top 5 Talents
👉 Unlock All 34 of Your Talents
Want to go deeper? Strengths-based coaching can help you lean into what makes you exceptional—and help others do the same. Book your free strategy session and explore how coaching can support your leadership, relationships, and impact.
