As a result of flatter organizations and the need for quicker response, many companies are moving toward a team-type structure. This organizational change, from traditional departments to a collaborative team concept requires acceptance of several key elements by employees and managers: commitment to the purpose of the team, contribution of time and talents, communication of relevant information, cooperation to get the job done, management of team conflicts, understanding and adapting to change, and connection of the team’s goal to the organizations mission.

Assessing where your employees are in all of these areas and offering the opportunities for feedback and training in areas that are weak, will be a worthwhile investment over the long run. Some of the techniques and skills you may find require enhancement include: effective planning and organization skills, facilitating open communication, coaching and feedback skills, problem solving techniques and flexibility to adapt to change.

Glenn Parker outlines the characteristics of an effective team in his book, Team Players and Teamwork:  The New Competitive Business Strategy, as follows:

• clear purpose - defined and accepted vision, mission, goal and action plan
• formality - informal, comfortable and relaxed
• participation - much discussion and everyone encouraged to participate
• listening - use effective listening techniques
• civilized disagreement - members do not avoid, smooth over or suppress conflict
• consensus decision making - substantial agreement through thorough discussion
• open communications - feelings are legitimate, no hidden agendas
• clear roles and work assignments - clear expectations
• shared leadership - everyone shares in effective leadership behaviors
• external relations - the team develops outside relationships and resources
• style diversity - broad spectrum of group process and task skills
• self-assessment - periodically examines how well they are functioning

Effective teamwork knows no level. It is just as important among top executives as it is for the rank and file. The absence of teamwork at any level of the organization, or between levels, will limit organizational effectiveness and can eventually destroy the organization.

© Debbie King, Evolution Management, Inc.  All Rights Reserved.