What is a successful team?
This is where all members of the team work together to support each other, reach a common goal and communicate effectively. Just think of it as a great group of friends who respect and trust each other while knowing how to get things done. Each person of the team knows what their role and responsibilities are and understand that their work impacts the overall success of the team. Everyone is expected to openly and improvestly communicate with each other, share feedback and ideas to help the team improve.
They are flexible and adaptable to change and take on challenges effectively. They work together and brainstorm to find solutions without losing sight of their goals as a team and as individuals. A successful team is there for each other, celebrates success together while showing support and encouraging one another during hard times. This helps create a positive and inclusive workplace.
Why is a successful team important in the workplace?
When a team is successful this means what their doing works and helps the company. They are achieving their goals and get things done efficiently and effectively. This can lead to amazing productivity and boosts revenue for the company. Employees who are part of a successful team become more motivated and engaged which also leads to job satisfaction.
This helps develop a better communication and collaboration among employees and can create quality work and reduce conflict at the workplace. They are able to support everyone’s skills and strengths that lead to better problem-solving skills and decision making. This can also create a positive impact on the company’s reputation and brand. When a community recognises a company is showing success and high-performing teams, they can attract talent and clients who are impressed by the company’s achievements and teamwork.
Who makes a successful team?
1. Leader
Every team needs a leader to give guidance and direction. Whether they are a manager or a team member who can take up a leadership role and are responsible enough to set goals, delegate tasks and keep everyone on track and stay focused.
2. Expert
In a team there must be a certain member that specialise on a certain area. In building a marketing team, it is a good idea to include someone with experience and specialise on content creation, analytics and social media. This can help the team to reach the goals effectively.
3. Creative
They can think outside the box and come up with new ideas and concepts that can be crucial. These people are needed for problem-solving and innovation, they could be writers, or artists or even designers.
4. Collabourator
Teamwork is all about collaboration. Having people who are team players or members who are great at communicating are ideal, because they are always willing to pitch in and help out whenever they are needed.
5. Analyzer
Skilled at analysing data, feedback, tracking sales data or even monitoring website traffic, these skills are needed in a team. They help make data-driven decisions to improve their performance.
A group of individuals who are willing to work as a group and effectively achieve a common goal is the most important thing that you need to secure.
Strategies on building a successful team
1. Clear goals and expectations
When it comes in building team, having a clear goal and what you want to expect and achieve from each individual of your team is a must. This helps you select the right people for the job and make sure all of you are on the same page from the start.
2. Hiring the right one
Finding the right people who not only have great skills and experience but also who can work well with others and fit well in your company culture is not an easy task. You should select people who are passionate and share the same values about the work you do.
3. Communicating and collaborating
Having an environment where everyone feels safe and are comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas with the team and encourages collaborating on projects with one another is important. You have to make sure that everyone has the right resources and tools they needed to properly work together.
4. Celebrating success and learned from failures
When your team reaches a goal or completes a project always make sure to celebrate with them they will feel that you appreciated and acknowledged their hard work and contributions. In times of failures, don’t be afraid to address them openly and see them as a growth opportunity for you and your team.
5. Provide training and development
Why stop at mastering a small amount of skills? It is important to encourage your team to learn new skill and continue learning and growing within their roles. Companies should provide workshops, trainings or even conferences. Investing in your team’s best interest and development is the key of building a successful team.
More resources and references:
- Learn more about the 5 Elements of a successful team with this article from Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/ashleystahl/2018/10/18/5-elements-of-a-successful-team/?sh=4c9fdd702197
- Get the scoop on the secret sauce of what makes a Successful team. https://hbr.org/2012/04/what-makes-a-team-effective
- We often here about successful habits of highly effective people but what are they? https://www.inc.com/geoffrey-james/the-7-habits-of-highly-effective-teams.html
- Mindtools helps us learn more about Building an effective team. https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newLDR_86.htm
- There are 5 ways you can build an extraordinary Team culture. Entrepreneur shows us how here. https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/307234
David Alssema is a Body Language Expert and Motivational Speaker. As a performer in the personal development industry in Australia he has introduced and created new ways to inspire, motivate and develop individuals.
David Alssema started his training career with companies such as Telstra and Optus Communications, and then developed Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) within workplace training as principal of Paramount Training & Development.
As an author/media consultant on body language and professional development David has influenced workplaces across Australia. He contributes to Media such as The West Australian, ABC Radio, Australian Magazines and other Australia Media Sources.