I often get asked what defines a great leader and how will we know if a team is working optimally. Much has been written about the former point of leadership, but less about the signs of a great team. Therefore I dedicate this blog to this topic with 3 simple milestones on what great teamwork feels and looks like.
Milestone 1: Trust and Respect
A group becomes a team when each member is sure enough of himself and his contribution to praise the skills of the others. ~ Norman Shidle
Having the members in the team trust and respect one another is fundamental to a successful team. It means time has to taken to promote equity and camaraderie. Knowing what each member of the team is capable of and willing to contribute to the team. Building trust is giving and keeping small commitments and promises. This creates an empowered way of working and a culture that also weeds out those who can’t do the same for your team.
Milestone 2: Clear Common Goals
Team means Together Everyone Achieves More! ~ Author Unknown
Companies have visions and businesses have targets; but what are the measurable goals common to this team? Clear goals (no matter how daunting) can easily be broken down to needed actions, enabling members of the team to know where they can add value and where they might need help. This encourages multi-disciplinary work where teams cut across roles towards the greater good. The ideal synergy is when the sum is great than the parts and everyone feels part of the achievement.
Milestone 3: Personal Accountability and Mutual Support
Remember upon the conduct of each depends the fate of all. ~ Alexander the Great
Great teams ensure no one gets left behind, intentionally or unintentionally. It means roles and responsibilities are well defined with keen focus on accountability. Everyone does their share and more as required, flexibly responding to change. The sense of purpose is beyond achieving the team goals but in building rapport and supporting one another in the process. The whole team benefits when members maximize their strengths and knowledge towards one another’s development.
How does your team today measure to the above milestones? What are you ready to do about it?