Teamwork is useful when the job can’t be accomplished individually or requires interdependence. But a team that is successful requires planning and thinking. It is all too common for a group to be thrown in together with no planning, just a “marching order”, and told “Now, make us happy!”
The key to creating an effective team is having clear goals, well-defined outcomes and appropriate skills. Dwayne Rettinger empowers individuals, allowing them to grow and develop professionally. Ten ways to build a strong work team.
- Make a goal that everyone can agree on.
Each person must know how to work towards the goal.
- Be able to measure your outcomes.
When you measure team output, the execution will usually be better. To ensure that your team has a clear understanding of what you are aiming for, it is essential to set standards. You should then implement ongoing measures (milestones), which will help the team achieve their desired result.
- Promote interdependency.
It is important that each person understands what his or her contribution will be and how this fits into the “bigger picture”. Do not encourage personal (individual), competitive behavior in favour of team goals and agenda.
- Understanding and appreciating differences is important for the whole team.
It is important to understand that teamwork is a skill. Everyone brings something unique, whether it’s talent, skills, or communication. Each person must understand and be able appreciate their own style before they can build a unified, successful team.
- Ascertain that all team members are equipped with the correct skills.
For the team to succeed, both interpersonal and problem solving skills (soft skills) are essential. Never neglect one in favor of the other. Discover the skills needed, and offer the training required to fill those gaps.
- Then, train and follow up.
It is important that immediate supervisors, coaches and managers provide continuous coaching to ensure long-term retention. It is important to ask frequently about the progress of newly trained members and provide feedback. This will allow them to keep on practicing their new skills.
- Outline the channels of communication.
You should also be aware of the “flow” in communication.
- Constantly stress the mission of the team.
It might sound simplistic, but reminding your team often of what you are trying to achieve and why is crucial. This will keep them focused and ensure the vision and mission remain fresh. The team mission and desired result should be revisited often.
- Prepare detailed agendas before team meetings.
Team meetings aren’t always the most efficient or effective use of time. If a team meeting is required, be sure to structure it so that time is spent efficiently. These agendas focus primarily on the outcomes. This is more than a simple list of topics to be covered, as it will detail the outcomes that are expected during and afterwards.
- Be a role model.
Leaders will be judged by their actions and not words. To achieve successful teamwork you must be a good role model. Darcy Hitchcock describes it as follows: “employees act like professional boss-watchers.” The managers’ words are meaningless without their own actions. The act of leading is to get others motivated, and this can be difficult when you set different standards for everyone.
