The 4 Essentials of Team Success
There are very few professions where we aren’t expected to work in — or at least be part of — a team. Organizations that emphasize team building and hire employees who fit their collaborative culture create an environment where everyone’s contributions are recognized and valued. This drives productivity and success.
So, what are the key characteristics to a great team?
Strong Leadership
In a recent survey by Express Employment Professionals, people were asked what they believe to be the number one reason teamwork fails. Not surprising, one of the top responses was “poor leadership.” Great leadership is a powerful skill and a vital part of successful teambuilding. A team leader carries the heavy responsibility of ensuring everyone works well together, contributes to overall goals, and stays on task.
Leadership expert John Maxwell said it best, “a leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” To be a great team leader, you must have confidence, consistency, and commitment, while instilling those values in your team.
Common Goals
Legendary football coach Bud Wilkinson said, “If a team is to reach its potential, each player must be willing to subordinate his personal goals to the good of the team.” Without an agreement on purpose, a team cannot work in unison.
Effective goals should be S.M.A.R.T.—Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. The S.M.A.R.T. method of goal setting provides a template for success and helps ensure a team stays on task and focused.
Diversity
Although rallying around a common goal is imperative to teamwork success, diverse ideas for how to achieve it can be just as important. Multiple points of view can help shed light on unforeseen paths to success that may not emerge from a team whose members are too similar.
Constructive conflict can be a positive driver of success. Building a diverse team will almost inherently create a working environment where ideas are challenged and problems are solved through efficiency and creativity.
Trust
Trust is an essential component of great relationships, and can be especially important in the workforce. From trusting the leader’s ability to lead to trusting other members of the group in their own roles, great teamwork hinges on mutual respect. Leaders and team members must show each other they are trustworthy by being consistent in their actions, persistent in their resolve, and honest about their skills and expertise.
Consider these four characteristics as a starting point as you look to create — or make better — your own winning team.