PhD defence H.L. (Hannah) Moore

Below is a brief summary of the dissertation:

This dissertation explores how people can use their personal strengths at work in ways that benefit both themselves and the organizations they work in. Strengths are the qualities that come naturally to us and energize us, such as creativity, empathy, or perseverance. While many workplaces encourage employees to “focus on improvement areas,” this research shows that actively using one’s strengths can be a powerful driver of motivation, well-being, and performance.

Across multiple studies, this dissertation examines how employees recognize, apply, and develop their strengths in everyday work. The findings show that using strengths is not simply about doing what one is already good at. Rather, strengths use fulfills core psychological needs: it helps people feel more autonomous, more capable, and more connected to others. When these needs are met, employees are more engaged, perform better, and are more likely to help and support their colleagues.

The research also highlights that strengths are shaped by context. The words we use to describe strengths influence how they are understood; leaders and peers play an important role in recognizing and cultivating them; and cultural norms shape which strengths are valued. Finally, the dissertation shows that strengths-based self-leadership tools can support employees in managing the challenges of remote and hybrid work.

Together, these insights suggest that workplaces can become more energizing and collaborative by creating environments where people can discover, express, and grow their strengths, individually and together.