Improving TEAMS   

Good leaders stimulate teams with their enthusiasm and vision.

          Every team is unique so look closely at the group dynamics before you attempt to reorganise and improve a team.

          Different tasks require different types of team skills.

          It’s hard for a business to operate without forming effective teams.

Five of the best tips to improve a team

* Balance the composition

          You will get greater synergy if you select teams containing both men and women. They contribute to different outlooks and skills.

          Cynics and loafers should be removed if they hinder progress.

* Allow time for team building

          Don’t expect too much from new teams too soon. They often need mentoring and coaching.

          Set agreed deadlines.      

* Delegate responsibilities

          Use simple language to spell out the goals, objectives and performance standards required.

          Work teams must be given clear, specific responsibilities –  preferably in writing.

          People have a basic desire to make a difference – they want to contribute.

          Team members should meet frequently to review progress.

* Regular feedback is needed

          Managers and leaders must give feedback on how well teams are doing and what action is being taken on their recommendations. Good communication is a two-way affair.

          It’s essential for management to keep teams advised of changing situations and for teams to keep management informed of their developments and successes. 

          From time to time teams must be coached and, if necessary, rebalanced for greater efficiency.

          Encourage formal and informal activities outside work. Social events can help strengthen a team.

* Reward team successes

          Managers and leaders should acknowledge improvements and successes and reward results,  not tasks.

          Competition between teams can be a stimulus.

          Acknowledge, reward and celebrate successes and contributions by teams.         

Geoffrey Moss (mossassociates.co.nz)

“The only way to judge a team is by performance.”

Source:  Chapter 6;  Building Winning Teams; “Revitalise Your Business. Guidelines for new leader-managers” and “Secrets for New Managers”, first published by Moss Associates Ltd, New Zealand.  “Business Secrets” and “Secrets for New Managers” has been published by Cengage Learning, Asia. Also published by SE-EDUCATION in Thailand, ANE Books in India and by the Singapore Institute of Management.  Available as e-books from Amazon.com and VitalSource Bookshelf.