5 FACTS for effective team work

Focus on Results

In order for teams to be effective, they must all be cohesively focused on the end result. Dysfunctional teams tend to focus on their own goals and self-interest. This leads to misinterpretations of the end result and difficulty achieving a successful outcome.

Accountability

It is important for each of the team members to be accountable for their actions. Also each member must be willing to call out a team member’s bad behavior or poor performance. Also, it is important for each member to play their role. Otherwise, it can result in a team with resentment and based on bureaucracy.

Commitment

This results from clearly understanding responsibilities in engaging with the team in decision making. Everyone being involved is an important factor of team play.

Trusting during times of conflict

As in any relationships, there are bound to be conflicts due to differences in ideas, values, and upbringing. It is important not to fear them, but rather use it in a productive way. Focus on ideas and solutions. Listen to each other suggestions and find a compromise. If members focus on personalities and fault finding it will lead to an unhealthy working relationship.

Showing vulnerability

It is important to create a safe environment with all team members so that each member can admit to mistakes and weaknesses. In this way, politics and wasting time can be avoided.