These thoughts on Developing an Effective Team are in no order of priority. They are simple, no-nonsense reminders to help reinforce a range of good practice.
By applying these strategies, you are taking positive steps in the challenging area of team building.
So, use these thoughts to assist you in Developing an Effective Team.
Tip #1 – Learn the difference.
Management is about being hands on.
The role involves the monitoring, co-ordinating and controlling of people and processes.
Leadership is about direction.
The role involves vision and the ability to communicate and inspire.
Tip #2 – A Leaders role in a team.
The ‘Action Centred Leadership’ model created by John Adair explains the responsibilities as a leader.
There are 3 inter-locking circles – Task, Team and Individual.
A leader’s role is to ensure that everyone achieves tasks.
That the team work together in an effective way.
And to ensure the development of an individual’s knowledge and skills.
Tip #3 – The evolution of a team leader.
It is important to understand that teams change over time in respect of what they need from their leader.
In the initial stage, a leader needs to provide guidance and direction.
The next phase should be when the leader adopts the role of a coach.
When a leader achieves team efficiency, their role will evolve into that of a facilitator.
You should aim to delegate appropriate tasks to the team to encourage this evolution.
Tip #4 – Your style.
As the leader of a team, you should strive to understand your own preferred ‘style’.
Once you are aware of what you do and how you do it you should then consider if you need a little more flexibility.
In other words, do you have the knowledge and skill, the capability, to adapt your ‘style’?
To maximise the potential of the team you are leading?
If not, you’re not helping the team to be effective!
Tip #5 – Basic compliments.
Never underestimate the importance of the basics for motivating your team.
That means the real elementary stuff like saying ‘good morning’, ‘please’ and ‘thank you’.
It also means giving recognition where it’s due for a job well done.
It’s so simple to do, so remember to do it!
Tip #6 – Get engagement
Involvement helps to cultivate commitment, so involve your team whenever possible.
For example, an effective way to engage everyone is by developing a set of ‘Team Values’.
These can be as simple as ‘keep your own space tidy’ or ‘ask if you don’t understand’.
You can develop as many as appropriate.
They can also be a great way to overcome any tricky issues and keep the team focused.
Tip #7 – Have fun.
Why not have a little fun?
Well-designed team events can be a very effective way to build a positive team spirit.
You can also ‘do it yourself’ by using quick ice-breaking exercises or team games within team meetings.
This type of activity can have the potential to make a real and positive impact on any team.