Team building is essential in a business. Oftentimes teams they are tasked with a project that has overarching goals and requires input from different areas. Rather than focusing on individual gain, teams are working toward a common purpose and greater good. In order to maximize the benefit that teams provide, leaders must build trust, understanding, and a sense of ownership by each member. Establishing high performing teams can seem challenging at first, but with the right approach and strategic planning, the process becomes easier and these teams become an integral part of business operations.

Encourage collaboration. Members can be hesitant to offer their input if they are not sure how it will be received. When determining goals or strategies, invite everyone to have their say. Listen to each person’s ideas and try to understand others’ point of view. Integrate parts of various ideas together to create a solid purpose that everyone can agree upon and stand behind. It is important for members to feel valued and know that their contributions are appreciated and respected. Although there is a leader in the unit, this person is not the one making all of the decisions – they should be facilitating input from others and helping to work through challenges and disagreements.

Value each person’s strengths. Everyone has their own strengths and abilities. In a team, these different components work together to achieve objectives. Select members that bring different talents to the unit so that all aspects are covered. Make sure that everyone not only understands their individual role, but also how it contributes to overall efforts. They should know how they fit in and what their purpose on the team is. Responsibilities may overlap and team members must then work together to manage their efforts and create the best result.

Give feedback and guidance. The leader of the team plays an important role. They should be an active member contributing their part, but also managing the unit as a whole. Provide constructive feedback that supports members in improving their efforts and abilities. Recognize when more training is needed and ensure that necessary resources are available. By valuing efforts and guiding advancement, leaders can help each member to grow in their role and their career. Make sure that feedback is timely and relevant. This allows for faster resolution of issues and improved work quality.

Take the time to talk to each member and monitor their progress while addressing questions or concerns that they may have. Encourage them to use each other as resources to build communication and teamwork. They are not working against each other, but rather with each other; their roles are interdependent. Leaders should also work to provide team members with the opportunity to be challenged and grow. Putting their skills to use in a new or different way and being tasked with problem solving and collaboration can stimulate their involvement and interest in the project.

Establishing effective teams can make a noticeable difference in performance and productivity. It is essential that leaders understand how best to utilize and manage the team members and resources available for optimal results. If you are struggling with transitioning your employees from a group or individual mentality to a team mentality, the professionals at JP Kantor Consulting can help. We help you to develop the strategies, actions, and thought processes necessary to become a strong leader and motivate your teams to excel.  Contact us today.