Getting the Most from Your Team

Recognizing that some of the most important work we do each day is done
within the structure of some form of team, we need to understand what
teams are and what helps to make them effective.

What is a Team?
Two or more people who interact dynamically, interdependently, and adaptively
toward a common, shared and valued goal, have specific roles or functions, and have a
time-limited membership. 

 Why a team?
Teamwork cannot occur in the absence of a clearly defined and committed team.
Improving upon an existing, or designing a new team structure, is the first step
in implementing an effective teamwork system in any environment.

 

Effective TEAM MEMBERS:

• Understand their roles and responsibilities
• Demonstrate responsible decision-making
• Anticipate the needs of other team members
• Provide clear/precise information and quality feedback
• Manage conflict skillfully
• Reduce stress on the team as a whole through better performance
• Provide a higher quality product or service

 

To See What an Effective Team Looks Like 

[Click on the play button, then click again on the screen to enlarge the video]

 

KEY POINTS:

In this video you should have recognized aTEAM LEADER who:

• Takes the initiative to establish and empower a core team
• Takes responsibility for directing the team
• Uses clear and concise communication
• Delegates roles and responsibilities
• Makes precise requests of specific individuals
• Prepares and updates the team using the technique called a "brief"
• Concludes the event with a "de-briefing" - reviewing the team's
  performance and soliciting input on areas for improvement

"The ratio of We's to I's is the best indicator of the development of an (effective) team."
-Lewis Ergen

 

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