Last week I posted about the need for a team. You may know the acronym T.E.A.M. as Together Everyone Achieves More, and know that the truth is, not all teams fulfill that truism. In fact most teams seem to be locked in failed communication, competition with each other, jealousy, and sometimes, sabotage! So, this week I want you to think about what it takes to build an effective team.
You guessed it. I have another acronym for you, and I know this one will help you build a better team – whether it is in business, military, sports, church, or family. I know this doesn’t cover everything needed for a great team, but I do believe these four things a bedrock. So here goes:
Trust – Team members must choose to trust each other, and the rest of the points made in this post are basically useless unless the members of the team exercise this one. Trust means that I choose to believe the other members desire our team to be effective – to give our best as we seek to achieve our common purpose together. It also means that as a team member I need to act in such a way as to prove worthy of that trust. I need to have integrity, to show up every day ready to give my very best, and to value my teammates.
Empower – Team leads must empower all team members, and team members need to empower each other. To empower means that we give people the power to act. It is truly amazing how much can be achieved by a team, if no one cares who gets the credit. Too often, people are expected to get things done, but not given the authority to make that happen. Each team member brings a unique personality, strengths, weaknesses, abilities, and insight to the team. We need for that diversity to be embraced, not stifled. Empower your team to act!
Accountability – Team members need accountability, and they need to hold each other accountable. This is true because the natural tendency of us all is to trend downward, not upward. I am not talking about the accountability that focuses on peoples’ mistakes, but provide accountability by expecting and rewarding teammates for always giving their best, and staying focused on the mutually desired outcome.
Magnify – Team leads and members should make much of what truly counts. Make every small win a big deal, and let every failure be a learning experience. Failure should be common, if you are trying to do something new, or if you are trying to make something better. Just be sure the failure was the result of striving to achieve the Team’s goal. Manage the failures, learn from them. Celebrate the successes, regardless of whether they are large or small.
Want a more effective team? Then focus on putting these crucial steps in play within your team. You will be glad you did!
Make Yours A GREAT Day!
Danny