Unleashing Intuition And Passion

The SMSI systems are based on the principles of strengths-based management practices.  The most critical principle entails the discovery and understanding of the individual's unique strengths and the profile those strengths create.  This crucial awareness is important not only for the individual, but also for those with whom he/she works. 

SMSI Strength Indicator systems are structured, personal interviews that are conducted on a one-to-one basis. The structure reflects a pre-designed set of questions and standardized instructions to ensure consistnecy of administration.  This facilitates the utility of the systems for both face-to-face and telephone interviewing with no significant differences in reliability.

The primary advantage of personal interviews of this nature compared to traditional "paper-and-pencil" questionnaires or on-line surveys/questionnaires is reflected in the interviewer's opportunity to listen analytically and gather as much information as the candidate wishes to share.  Such listening stimulates a great deal of tacit knowledge that the interviewer can bring to bear on making the most appropriate decisions.  No such tacit knowledge is forthcoming when all that is available from traditional "paper-and-pencil" tests is a score sheet or standard template.

What the most effective leaders understand about decision-making is that listening is the most important aspect of effective communication.  That communication must begin at the outset of the interactions, not after the candidate has been recruited and hired.