The organisation of a team almost never runs smoothly. Conflicts, strong opinions and bad communication can all detract from a group dynamic and disrupt the collective core goal that each member is working towards. Whether this is organising a meet-up with friends, playing in a football match or helping to deliver a company project, teamwork is essential to the development of an idea. And it’s how successfully a team interacts that an idea evolves faster and with more consistency.
A bad group dynamic can ruin a fantastic concept and many businesses are at risk of great losses through bad group management. So how should we reinforce good teamwork to ensure that tasks are met in the most effective way possible?
Following these five simple steps is a great place to begin.
1. Learn ‘who’ your team is
The nature of working in a team can be daunting – you may be interacting with people unfamiliar to you or with colleagues that are more senior. In any circumstance always clarify who is leading the team – this will be the person to direct any uncertainties you may have regarding your tasks. Likewise, those leading the projects should fully immerse themselves in this role – do not be frightened to delegate your ideas. What may seem bossy to you is actually a good source of guidance for others.
2. Define the objectives of the task
Make sure that each member of the team has the same idea of the final result. Everyone should know what they are working towards and be clear and comfortable in the message they are delivering.
Tip – you as a team participant should be able to answer the following questions: what are we working towards with this idea? What am I doing to ensure we reach our targets? This will make you feel more confident in what you are trying to achieve.
If you are leading a team make sure you ensure that everyone is confident in their tasks and that you are up-to-date with all information related to the project.
3. Fix issues early on
Problems from unresponsive team members or tasks that aren’t clear lead to slow progression and lack of confidence in a project. While it can be a difficult first step it is important to speak up if you are finding any parts of the tasks unclear. If you are new to a team dynamic, remember: never be afraid to voice your opinions. If you are having issues it is likely someone else in the team is sharing your concerns.
4. Find clear routes of communication
How often have you found that when trying to arrange a large event that people cannot attend or cancel last minute? Team Leaders will be likely to experience the same issues.
Ensure that everyone is contactable through a variety of sources so participation can be managed efficiently. Remember, take full advantage of digital technologies and social media platforms – Skype is a fantastic resource when physical meetings cannot be collaborated and allow information to be delivered clearly to those querying task specifics.
5. Finally, be confident in the outcome
Whether you are leading, organising or adding your ideas keep in mind that you are contributing to something that will benefit a positive outcome. Whether working on a large project or just organising a small event with friend’s organisation is a very useful skill and highly sought by employers. Stay positive in achieving this goal and feel good that you are using your strengths to play a part in its outcome.
Article written by Lauren Benali
Graphics designed by Nerissa Alfonso
