Making Teams Effective
Why do some teams succeed and others fail? Often, the difference comes down to just a few simple elements. Teams that succeed are not by accident, but by clear intentions, hard work, and perseverance. As you consider your team, remember to follow these guidelines.
Have effective leaders
Many people have a misconception about what makes an effective leader or why an effective leader is so important. Capable leaders are the most vital component to team’s success. They set the tone and provide the right balance of support to each team member and the team as a whole. Effective leaders listen, chart a course for the future and ensure that everyone is involved.
Have diverse perspectives
A successful team contains people with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and skills. Most importantly, they should bring diverse perspectives and thoughts. The more your team incorporates different views, the more successful it will be. Imagine a team where everyone had the same background and the same view. No growth or change would likely occur. Diverse views help to challenge the status quo and bring change.
Adapt to change
These days, change is a constant, not an exception. As a result, teams need to be aware of the need to adapt their plans or approach. While job descriptions might be static, the work never is. As a team, it’s important to challenge the status quo. Ask “What’s working? What’s not working? What do we need to change to be more successful?” Andy Grove, the former CEO of Intel, the world’s largest chip maker and one of the most admired companies in the world, once said that “only the paranoid survive.” Operate with the assumption that what you are doing today isn’t appropriate for tomorrow.
Communicate, communicate and communicate
It’s easy to fall back on technology to communicate the latest news. While this is helpful, regular communication using different methods will help your team understand all the important issues. Relying on just technology limits robust two-way communication. Regular team meetings are vital to discuss issues impacting the team. Providing regular updates is also an important element keeping everyone aware.
While the above elements take some effort, like Ken Blanchard, the noted Management Consultant and author of The One Minute Manager said, “None of us is as smart as all of us.”