Strategic Thinking Domain

Leaders with great Strategic Thinking strengths are the ones who keep us all focused on what could be. They are constantly absorbing and analysing information and helping the team make better decisions. People with strength in this domain continually stretch our thinking for the future (Definition provided by Gallup, Inc).

The Themes included in the Strategic Thinking Domain are Analytical, Context, Futuristic, Ideation, Input, Intellection, Learner, Strategic. Although they are part of this particular domain, they all have their own unique approach towards Strategy. Let’s take a quick look at each Theme based on the Gallup definitions.

Analytical

People exceptionally talented in the analytical theme search for reasons and causes. They have the ability to think about all the factors that might affect a situation. They tend to challenge others to ‘Prove it’ and are often more critical where others might quickly accept something as truth.

Context

People exceptionally talented in the Context Theme enjoy thinking about the past. They understand the present by researching its history. Perspective and background are important for people with strong Context talents. They value the retrospective viewpoint because they believe that is where the answers lie. They look back to understand the present.

Futuristic

People exceptionally talented in the Futuristic Theme are inspired by the future and what could be. They energise others with their visions of the future. People with strong Futuristic talents love to peer over the horizon. They are fascinated by the future. They anticipate and imagine in detail what tomorrow could or should be. They usually see the future positively.

Ideation

People exceptionally talented in the Ideation Theme are fascinated by ideas. They are able to find connections between seemingly disparate phenomena. People with strong Ideation talents are creative and appreciate originality. They relish free-thinking experiences such as brainstorming and discussion groups. They have a natural capacity to consider issues from multiple perspectives.

Input

People exceptionally talented in the Input Theme have a craving to know more. Often they like to collect and archive all kinds of information. People with strong Input talents are inquisitive. They always want to know more. They crave information. They like to collect certain things, such as ideas, books, memorabilia, quotations, or facts. Whatever they collect, they do it because it interests them.

Intellection

People exceptionally talented in the Intellection Theme are characterised by their intellectual activity. They are in introspective and appreciate intellectual discussions. People with strong Intellection talents like to think. They like mental activity. They like to exercise the “muscles” of their brain, stretching them in multiple directions. This need for mental activity may be focused; for example, they may be trying to solve a problem, develop an idea, or understand another person’s feelings.

Learner

People exceptionally talented in the Learner Theme have a great desire to learn and want to continuously improve. The process of learning, rather than the outcome excites them. People with strong Learner talents constantly strive to learn and improve. Learners are energised by the steady and deliberate journey from ignorance to competence. They are excited by the thrill of learning new facts, beginning a new subject, and mastering an important skill.

Strategic

People exceptionally talented in the Strategic Theme create alternative ways to proceed. Faced with any given scenario, they can quickly spot the relevant patterns and issues. They have the ability to sort through the clutter and find the best route. This is not a skill that can be taught. It is a distinct way of thinking — a special perspective on the world at large. This outlook allows them to see patterns where others simply see complexity.