Customising Job Roles to Match Individual Strengths and Preferences
Posted December 2024
Enhances Productivity: When employees work in roles that match their strengths, they’re more likely to excel, resulting in higher productivity and job satisfaction.
Fosters Inclusivity: Customising roles shows a commitment to inclusivity, enabling people with different abilities to contribute fully to the organisation.
Reduces Turnover: Employees in roles suited to their strengths are more engaged and less likely to seek other employment, saving businesses the cost of recruiting and training new staff.
→ Identify Strengths and Preferences:
Use tools like strengths assessments and regular feedback sessions to understand each employee’s skills, interests, and preferred working style. Engage employees in conversations about the tasks they enjoy and those they find challenging. This feedback can help shape roles that align with their strengths.
→ Adjust Tasks and Responsibilities:
Break down roles into core tasks and explore whether certain responsibilities can be reassigned or adjusted. For instance, in a woodworking setting, an employee with excellent fine motor skills might focus on detailed finishing tasks like sanding or varnishing, while a colleague who excels in larger, physical tasks takes on cutting and assembling pieces. This way, each worker can contribute to the project based on their unique abilities, ensuring the team works efficiently and effectively.
→ Provide Necessary Accommodations:
Make sure employees have the tools and accommodations they need to perform their best, such as assistive technology, flexible hours, or modified physical setups. Offering these resources can transform a role to suit the needs of the individual, enabling them to contribute effectively and comfortably.
→ Create an Open Feedback Loop:
Encourage ongoing dialogue about role fit and allow flexibility for adjustments over time. Regular check-ins provide an opportunity to reassess roles and responsibilities, ensuring employees continue to feel engaged and supported.
Improves Team Dynamics: When everyone works within their strengths, teams operate more smoothly, with each member contributing effectively.
Increases Innovation: Diverse strengths bring varied perspectives, fostering innovation and creative problem-solving.
Enhances Employer Brand: Customising roles demonstrates a commitment to employee wellbeing and inclusivity, making the organisation an attractive workplace for top talent.
At Willing & Able, we specialise in creating roles that match the strengths and preferences of people with disabilities.
Our approach includes tailored job coaching, skills development, prompts, mentoring and support to ensure employees thrive in their roles and that the roles grow with the employees.
