by Gayle Lantz
I've always argued that good team building starts with good leadership. So one of the most important aspects of developing a great team is to take a look at how you're leading.
With the current pressures in the workplace, some teams are about to break. Team members are being asked to pull more weight and paddle twice as fast to produce results.
Leaders who can keep their teams calm, focused and productive will make it through the storm.
Here are some quick tips to help you be most effective in your leadership role with your team:
- Stay positive. Some leaders, especially during these tough times, feel like they have to wear a smiling mask on their face to hide their own concerns about current conditions. Be as positive as you can while still being authentic. Look for even the smallest opportunities and successes to acknowledge with your team.
- Watch your tone. It’s not always what you say, but how you say it. For example, if you say, “This is a HUGE problem!” people may feel fear or panic. Whereas if you say, “This is a huge problem, but we’ll find a solution…” it offers more reassurance and confidence and sends a different message.
- Increase your availability. You can probably tell me 20 other commitments, meetings or priorities you need to tend to today, but if your team loses access to you for too long, performance can suffer. Remind your team of the times you expect to be available during the week. You don't have to abandon other priorities. Strike the right balance for you.
- Challenge the team’s thinking. Ask your team, “What’s the most important aspect of our teamwork that we can improve?” You’ll stimulate some good discussion, and achieve better team results.
Any team building effort must be built on strong leadership as a foundation.
What specific aspect of your leadership do you need to improve to help your team?
PS: I was quoted in a recent Harvard Management Update article on the topic of team building exercises in tough times. The article includes additional perspective on team building that may be of interest.
Visit the Harvard Business Review to read the article:
Team-Building Exercises for Tough Times
On the Lighter Side
If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs, it's just possible you haven't grasped the situation.
~Jean Kerr
Leadership Resource
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