In life, people are parts of many different “teams.” For example, a family could be considered a team. Similarly, co-workers make up a team. And, if a team is not aligned and is not working toward a common goal or aim, it is very likely to fail.
Teams like these can be categorized as dysfunctional. Fortunately, however, if one finds that one is a part of a dysfunctional team, there are things that can be done to improve the team and make it functional. The key is to first figure out the problem and then take positive, proactive steps to correct it.
Understand That Every Team Is At Risk
One of the biggest mistakes a team can make is to think it is immune to dysfunctionality. As one browse around this site and learn more about how teams function, one will come to see that absolutely any group can develop problems. This is true even for groups or teams that have worked successfully together in the past. Thus, all teams should regularly assess themselves for signs of being dysfunctional. The sooner they recognize these signs and take action, the lower the chances of serious repercussions.
Strong Teams Start With Strong Leadership
No matter how great or skilled the people on a team are, they’re only as strong as the people leading them. However, according to realtimecampaign.com, leaders, just like their team members, need training and guidance. The best leaders are people who have studied how to communicate effectively, know how to set clear standards, and understand their own personalities, strengths, and weaknesses.
Ideally, strong leaders also know these things about the people they lead and work to bring out the best in each person they are responsible for. For this reason, businesses should focus on improving leadership first. The result is likely to be a trickle-down effect and a decreased chance of a dysfunctional team within the organization. Five tactics to lead teams effectively that all leaders should know include:
Being willing to listen to the input and opinions of others while making them feel valued and heard
Regularly evaluating both team and individual performance
Having and expressing clear expectations for each team member
Encouraging team members at every possible opportunity
Discovering team members’ strengths and helping them find ways to use those strengths for the good of the group
Have Team Members Try a Strength Assessment
As noted, figuring out what people are good at is important. After all, fixing weaknesses is a lot harder than capitalizing on strengths. Luckily, there are tests or assessments that can analyze people, their personalities, how they approach teamwork, and what they’re particularly good at. For example, Tilt 365 is known for offering strength assessments specifically designed for workplace use.
These assessments are fun and very enlightening. People can learn about themselves, and leaders can learn about their team members. From there, improving oneself and understanding how the team functions become much easier.
Ultimately, no one wants to be a part of or responsible for a dysfunctional team. But, dysfunction can and does happen. When it does, successful organizations will be prepared. They’ll have steps in place, such as the use of regular strength assessments, to prevent dysfunction from happening, as well as strategies to combat it when it does occur.
Media ContactCompany Name: Realtimecampaign.comContact Person: Media RelationsEmail: Send EmailPhone: 407-875-1833Country: United StatesWebsite: Realtimecampaign.com
