This weeks discussion is around developing strong team dynamics… If you have ever been a member of a successful team, or have experienced a dysfunctional team, hop down to the comments and share your experience… At any time if you have an interesting thought or note that pops into your head, I would love to hear it and get your feedback! It is appreciated!
The Value of True Team Dynamics
From the very first meal we had together (see my first leadership lesson and our team building dinner), every player was involved and seen as just as valuable as the next. Had one teammate not cooked their dish, the dinner would not have been complete. In a team setting this sense of value is incredibly important, not because it is cliche, but because at the end of the day, every player/employee has the ability to contribute to an aspect of the team’s success.
Every Player is Equally Important in Making the FInal Meal!
Whether it is the the face of the team (one of the strongest players) or someone in the back office (12th or 13th man) taking care of all of the small intangible details that go unnoticed… As a team leader if you believe everyone is equally valuable and important to the team’s success, you will create a culture that:
- Establishes an equal level of respect for every player regardless of age, status, experience, or talent
- Every player will be intrinsically motivated to do what they can to help the team, and will understand that their role is unique in accomplishing this
- The team will grow stronger and a closer unit, each player buying into the ultimate goal because they are a valued part of the process.
- SIDE NOTE: If your team culture communicates high intrinsic value to every member regardless of role, these team members will also go out into their respective communities and praise your team, building a positive brand name and association in the greater spheres of influence!
At the end of the day, you must believe that every member of your team is valuable and can contribute something unique and important to the group… Otherwise, they should not be there.
Identify the Opportunities to Engage
As the leader of a team or organization, you are presented with hundreds of opportunities everyday to listen, interact, and involve your team members. Whether you know it or not, the value that you place on these small interactions will play a huge role on the level of engagement and buy-in members will be willing to give.
It is important to remember that even though spending a minute or two to chat or advice a younger team member may not influence you much, you HAVE to put yourself in the shoes of your younger members. They are in a new environment, are in-experienced, and looking for acceptance into the culture. I can’t tell you how many times I have taken 2 minutes to spend quality time and conversation with a younger player, only to have that player, their peer, or parent come tell me how much that small conversation meant to them.
Being the leader is not exclusively about setting the direction and being the voice of the team… It is valuable and important to show genuine care and support for your team members
As a leader you are always being watched, and your actions speak loudly. When you show team members you care about them, their development, and best interests, it is a big deal, and the team will benefit because of it!
