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Have you ever felt like each of the people you interviewed seemed like A-star employees during the interview, but when you put them together as a team, the frequency seems off, someone is out-casted, or the morale is not that good?
This could be because:
- the team members are not really on the same working wavelength
- there is a communication breakdown
- some team members just seem to be more overloaded than others
- The list goes on
The good news is that if you take the necessary measures, you can cultivate an effective dream team of colleagues that enjoy working and growing together, and also produce great results for the company.
Here are 6 important measures and points that you need to take note of to ensure that you have an effective team, so your business can grow to greater heights!
1. Complementary personalities
Everyone is unique and will be able to offer their own experiences and knowledge that others may not possess. It is virtually impossible for a single person to be good at everything. Even if there is an individual like this, this individual is likely one in a billion. Also, it is unfair to expect one individual to do everything.
Diversity is needed so that all of the required skills in a team are handled by someone who is best at each skill. This means that every task given to the team can be done at a great standard. A variety of personalities, age groups, cultures, etc. can also bring creativity and a broad range of ideas to the table. Identifying what each team member is good at and giving that team member more opportunities to improve their skill(s) can also give them a greater sense of ownership.
2. Helpful to each other
The best team is when the Team members are always happy to assist others when they need a helping hand with work. Imagine coming to a workplace where you and your colleagues are always eager to lend a helping hand whenever they have the time. Life at work will be so much happier and healthier if this is the case!
3. Respectful of each other’s strengths
Each individual is unique and will have their own set of strengths and weaknesses. Constantly comparing an individual’s weakness with another individual’s strength can contribute to a work environment that is low in morale.
Instead of constantly comparing, figure out what you need in an employee during the interview process. Instead of wanting all your employees to have the same set of strengths and weaknesses, keep in mind that the best teams consist of team members that have strengths and weaknesses that complement each other.
4. Transparent
All members of a team should be aware of whatever it is that may impact each of them. The team leader to take the necessary measure to keep all team members well informed. Expecting an employee to know something that you only informed another employee of, is a sure-fire way to increase tension and sour relationships in the team.
5. Focused on goals and results
A great team agrees on and sets team goals based on outcomes and results, rather than just the amount of time that has been clocked or the amount of work being done.
It is important for all the team members to be in unison when it comes to the team’s goals and objectives. With a clear direction, all the team members will have a goal to aim for collectively. It is good if each team member has some task ownership, so they feel that they are contributing to the team, and are not simply busy without having any purpose.
To remain focused on the team’s goals, the team can carve out an overall plan, where they can plan out what they need to do to achieve the objectives and goals.
6. Good working relationship
A good team communicates openly with each other about work related issues and updates. They comfortably share their thoughts, opinions, and ideas with members of their team; as well as taking into consideration what others have to say.
Communication is essential for keeping track of progress and working together efficiently on tasks. Poor communication can lead to crossed wires, which can mean work is left incomplete/incorrect or conflicts can arise. Therefore, do take measures to ensure that your team members are able to communicate comfortably and effectively with one another.
