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What do we mean by Activator?
The Clifton StrengthsFinder results describe this talent theme as follows; “”When can we start?” This is a recurring question in your life. You are impatient for action. You may concede that analysis has its uses or that debate and discussion can occasionally yield some valuable insights, but deep down you know that only action is real. Only action can make things happen. Only action leads to performance. Once a decision is made, you cannot not act. Others may worry that “there are still some things we don’t know,” but this doesn’t seem to slow you. If the decision has been made to go across town, you know that the fastest way to get there is to go stoplight to stoplight. You are not going to sit around waiting until all the lights have turned green. Besides, in your view, action and thinking are not opposites. In fact, guided by your Activator theme, you believe that action is the best device for learning. You make a decision, you take action, you look at the result, and you learn. This learning informs your next action and your next. How can you grow if you have nothing to react to? Well, you believe you can’t. You must put yourself out there. You must take the next step. It is the only way to keep your thinking fresh and informed. The bottom line is this: You know you will be judged not by what you say, not by what you think, but by what you get done. This does not frighten you. It pleases you.”
Kristine Vidic, one of our dedicated Career Advisors and Strengths Coach Extraordinaire has the following advice for students with Activator in their Top 5 Strengths. If the above description describes you, be sure to read below!
People who are especially talented in the Activator theme can make things happen by turning thoughts into action. Thus, you’ve got to learn how to capitalize on that strength!
Things to consider for an ACTIVATOR while at Bentley
- When thinking about a career path, Activators like to jump right in and start. So your best approach to career planning is to take CDI 101 in your freshman year and CDI 201 in your sophomore year. These courses will assist you in putting together a career action plan.
- Look at volunteer and internship opportunities that allow you to “try on” an experience that looks interesting to you.
- Look for a club or group on campus that will lead you closer to your career goals, i.e. investment club or Bentley Leadership Society – find something that moves you forward.
- Volunteer for activities on campus that require you to do more than just meet. Activators are quick starters and like to see results – try getting involved in service learning projects like Habitat for Humanity, Father Bill’s Place or Home for Little Wanders.
- Be the change agent for a stalled project in the club or organization. The experience will fit nicely on your resume under “leadership experience.”
- Run for office in your club or student organization. Maybe even student government – you can probably think of lots of things that can be improved at Bentley and you have the drive to get things going.
- Activators don’t always look before they leap. Consider partnering with a faculty or staff member that can add direction and planning to your activation.
Below is a video created by the Gallup Strengths Center that goes into more detail about the Activator Talent Theme and how it can help you on your path to success!
