We Have it All Backwards: Using Positive Psychology and a Strengths Based Approach to Staff Development

Abstract

We all have things we do well, and have areas that could use improvement. From a staff development perspective, we tend to focus on areas of weakness as opposed to developing strengths. Conventional wisdom says this is the best way to improve staff performance, but is it really? This presentation will explore using a strengths based approach to management and staff development, and how it can potentially improve employee engagement, morale, customer service and create an overall better library environment. We will discuss the theoretical foundations of positive psychology as well as ways in which we have applied a strengths based approach with our staff.