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Invariably, when we conduct an assessment of a team to determine where it stands in terms of the above productivity and positivity elements it is very common to see a range of opinions derived from the many perspectives represented by the various members or ‘voices’ within that team.  The resulting reality of their situation represented by the ‘average’ rating that any one element receives becomes the starting point for improving the situation.  Thus, it quickly becomes obvious to that team where they need to focus in order to raise the presence of any individual element.  Given that the team has identified what is lacking within any and all areas and in doing so, can rather easily create the steps that they can and need to effectively take to raise the existence of that element.  Often times by focusing on one particular element and improving it, there is also positive impact within another area. 

As an example, imagine a situation where it is determined there is a lack of respect between team members.  We realize that some of that stems from the fact that although we’re on the same team, we have recently expanded the group and brought in new people who are generally unknown in terms of their background and experience. Thus, it is difficult for others to respect the presence of these newer additions.  By taking the steps to make every team member familiar with one another in terms of their respective backgrounds and experience most often the respect is also increased because of the value one now recognizes.  And now that one has increased respect there is a greater inclination to trust them, want to work with them (camaraderie), enter into a solid decision making process and value the diversity of their opinions – all because I have gained a newfound respect and appreciation for a leadership team member.

As the leader, taking a litmus test of your team is good practice with regularity because like so many other things, movement toward the optimum situation takes effort over time.  If …

• The decision making within the team seems often laborious and without clear and crisp direction …
• Communication is too often reduced to some form of ‘infighting’ among members resulting in feelings of frustration and disgust …
• There is a tendency to repeat errors made in the past through the team’s decisions …
• The team seems to lack a process around making final decisions …
• Certain team members are viewed as difficult and ornery through their ‘different’ and often negative views …

... then you have some indicators that you’re lacking in some key elements that account for the most successful and productive teams.  Especially in times like we’re in today … when we need to increase productivity and effectiveness accompanying a business need to conserve costs to operate as efficiently and effectively as possible, it behooves every organization to take the steps to maximize the ability for all of their teams – from top level leadership to departmental and project teams.

                                                                               The End

 

The video featured in this edition of BOLD Print will at first appear to be about dancing.  However, viewed through the perspective of the most successful teams, it demonstrates the strength, achievement and success that real team-man-ship can bring.  Maybe some of these ‘steps’ are ones you’ll want to add or enhance within your organization.

Achievements of Real Team-man-ship

Written by The Third Zoone Staff

Viewed through the perspective of the most successful teams, this video demonstrates the strength, achievement and success that real team-man-ship can bring.  Maybe some of these ‘steps’ are ones you’ll want to add or enhance within your organization. (click on image to view video)

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