This study examines how middle managers support their employees' strengths use via three sequential analyses. In Study 1, an open-ended questionnaire survey of high-performing middle managers at a global manufacturer in Japan (n = 144) was conducted to collect comments on strengths use support (SUS). The grounded theory approach was used to…

Competence models have evolved into a link between organizational strategy and organizational and individual performance. Training professionals use them to synthesize individual capabilities and organizational core competencies. Educators and policymakers use them to link workplace requirements to educational programs and curricula. (SK)