A strengths-based approach to coaching empowers individuals to thrive by focusing on what is strong, not what is wrong. Grounded in the work of McCashen and Wayne (2005) and supported by contemporary research in positive psychology, this approach builds self-determination, resilience, and sustainable motivation, even in the face of challenge.

In this workshop, we explore how leveraging character strengths can drive powerful conversations, unlock team potential, and support a coaching culture grounded in empathy, capability, and accountability. By shifting the focus from fixing weaknesses to elevating what works, leaders create lasting impact and high-performing, human-centred workplaces.

Key Focus Areas:

🔹 The Power of Strengths

Discover how focusing on what individuals do well can enhance their well-being, resilience, collaboration, and goal achievement. This evidence-based approach balances recognising the challenge with activating intrinsic motivation and core values.

🔹 Elevating Empathy and Social Responsibility

By shifting from blame to possibility, strengths-based coaching promotes empathy, mutual respect, and responsibility. Particularly valuable in customer-facing roles and leadership, this perspective fosters understanding and supports lasting outcomes.

This workshop includes:

✔ Foundational Principles of Strengths-Based Practice: Gain a clear understanding of the research and core philosophies that underpin strengths-based coaching and its workplace relevance.

✔ Application of VIA Strengths in the Workplace: Learn how to apply the VIA Character Strengths framework to develop individual and team potential. (Gallup StrengthsFinder can be incorporated upon request.)

✔ The Skill/Will Matrix: Understand how to diagnose motivation and skill gaps, and tailor your coaching and leadership approach accordingly.

✔ The GROW Coaching Model: Practice using this structured and effective coaching model to facilitate goal-oriented, empowering conversations.

✔ Managing Difficult Behaviour: Explore practical techniques for managing challenging individuals through a strengths lens and clear communication strategies.

✔ Strengths Spotting & Appreciative Coaching Techniques: Develop the skills to identify strengths in others, offer positive reinforcement, and guide meaningful growth conversations.

Jane Wundersitz is the lead facilitator for this program and is the Master Trainer for VIA Strengths.

She has personally worked with and graphed the strengths of over 200 teams and 8000 individuals. She shares tools and strategies to map a team’s strengths, guides participants where challenges may arise and provides tips to build on team strengths and dynamics.

We adapt the delivery to best support client needs. The program is best as a 2-day delivery or four half days with practical homework activities to support embedding practices.

Studies and research papers on the impact of a strengths approach.

• Science Direct: A strengths-based approach