S. 2 Ep 17: Playing to Your Strengths with Michelle Merritt

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In this episode of Dear HR Diary, I sit down with Michelle Merritt—Chief Strategy Officer at D&S Executive Career Management, Board & Executive Career Coach, and all-around StrengthsFinder guru—to unpack how understanding and owning your strengths can completely transform your work, your relationships, and even your job search. (Spoiler alert: It's not about fixing your weaknesses—it's about maximizing your magic.)

Together, we explore the power of the CliftonStrengths assessment and what it really means to lead, work, and grow from a strengths-based perspective. Whether you're a new manager trying to build a better team, a job seeker figuring out your next move, or a leader looking to boost engagement and productivity, Michelle brings practical, real-world wisdom you can actually use.

💥 What we cover in this episode:

• What is CliftonStrengths, and why it’s so much more than just another personality quiz
• How identifying your strengths can be a game-changer for career development
• Practical ways to use StrengthsFinder in team dynamics and leadership
• Why leaning into your strengths improves workplace engagement and job performance
• The role of strengths in navigating job transitions and interviews
• How understanding your top strengths can improve communication and relationships—yep, even at home!

💡 Quote from Michelle:
"When we start building teams around strengths instead of roles, everything changes. People don’t just work better—they feel better."

🎯 Whether you're in HR, management, or just figuring out what lights you up—this episode is a must-listen.

🔗 Links & Resources:

• Learn more about Michelle Merritt: https://www.dscareermanagement.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellemerritt/
• Take the CliftonStrengths Assessment: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths
• Work with us at Manage With Hart: managewithhart.com

📲 Let’s Connect:
Like what you heard? Rate and review the show, and share this episode with someone who’s ready to lean into their strengths. And don’t forget to follow Dear HR Diary for your weekly dose of honest, hilarious, and heart-driven leadership insight.

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Website: www.managewithhart.com
Instagram: @managewithhart