How to Build an Efficient Team
One way to identify a great leader is by the strength of their team. A good leader is not afraid to make decisions, establish performance standards, and ensure that all team members follow through diligently. As a leader or someone in a managerial role, it is crucial that you continuously seek ways to improve your team’s performance.
Performance indicators show that in situations that require multiple skillsets, teamwork produces a better result than individual work. While many managers understand this, there is still a struggle to build an efficient team. Here are five tips to help you create a productive team.
1. Be A Leader
The first step to creating an efficient team is understanding and meeting up with what is expected of a leader. A leader is not identified by a title but by actions. Practice efficient communication and be open to criticism. When you take action, always look at the bigger picture – think of how your decision will affect the whole team or organization and not just you. As a leader, you will be faced with difficulties but aim to remain calm through such situations, as this builds trust among your team members.
2. Have Clear Objectives
Every team should have a purpose and objective they seek to achieve. Having clear objectives set will influence the way processes are developed and how you delegate tasks.
Ensure each team member is aware of what is expected from them and how the task will help move the organization towards achieving a higher goal. When team members do not understand why they’re doing something, they are less likely to put in their best effort, unlike when they know the importance of the task given to them.
3. Build a Connection
A team can simply be defined as a group of people who share their unique talents to help each other accomplish a goal. With this definition in mind, an efficient team is expected to rely on a good relationship with team members. For the most part, team members who trust and are comfortable with each other are more productive and efficient than those who do not.
A few ways you can help build a connection within your team include encouraging collaborations and team-building exercises such as mentorship programs, workplace wellness programs, and happy hours. These activities create a safe space for team members to discuss topics that may or may not be work-related and build trust.
4. Monitor and Review
If you want to develop an efficient team, you need to implement a functional evaluation technique. Evaluation enables you to measure and the success of individual team members and identify their strengths and weaknesses.
When carrying out team evaluations, do not rush the process and make sure you use the right tools. Managers often use tools like feedback and balanced scorecards etc. Regardless of the approach or tool you pick, always remember to provide feedback back to your team.
You can also do this with a score sheet, that allows you to rank each team member or have a private chat. When pointing out the weaknesses of a team member, avoid being too critical and provide them with directions, training, or mentoring to help them meet their future objectives. Remember not to focus too much on weaknesses but also celebrate success as this encourages the team member and serves as a good source of motivation for others.
5. Provide Support
A leader’s role is not just to delegate and control but also to provide support to their team members. Ensure that the workplace is a level-headed space filled with positive energy.
There are several ways you can provide support for your team, and they include standing up for them when attacked. Defending your team members does not mean you should turn a blind eye to their problems; instead, your default position should be to come to their defense.
If your team members notice that you don’t willingly stick up for them, they’ll feel exposed and lose trust. Another way to provide support is by equipping them with the right tools to improve productivity, such as business high speed internet service and setting up an environment that is safe and conducive.
Conclusion
Team building is one of the most vital responsibilities of a manager, and it should be an ongoing process. When building a team. It is essential to remember that your team’s strength is a reflection of your capability as a leader.