It’s no secret that we all want to manage, lead or be a part of a high performance team. These teams face challenges head-on, know how to tackle problems, find solutions, and above all else – deliver results. Today we are going to bring it back to the basics before we’ve become part of the high-performance team, and learn HOW TO BUILD HIGH PERFORMANCE TEAMS.
The famous Bruce Tuckmans model for group or team development explains the phases necessary for any team to grow and produce results. If you are interested in learning more about the 4 phases: forming, storming, norming and performing, check out this article. It’s a great read!
Along with Tuckman’s 4 phases of development, take note of our 4 top tips when discovering how to build a high-performance team. We know you will be on the road to success after reading.
1. Focus on Team Dynamics
Good team dynamics are majorily important to the success of your team. In every team, members adopts specific roles or behaviours. Kurt Lewin explains that team dynamics describes “the effects of these roles and behaviours on other group members, and on the group as a whole.”
A team with good, positive dynamics is what you should be aiming for. Focus on employing a diverse group of people whose skills and abilities will compliment one another. Find employees who are creative and innovative, that will bounce well off each other. It only takes one creative mind to create a sea of success and set you on your way to maintaining a high-performance team.
A few key points to remember when trying to protect positive team dynamics:
- Know your team
- Don’t let problems or issues stew
- Give everyone a role and responsibility
2. Recruit a Team Leader
In order to build a successful team, you must have a high performing leader. A team leader must be someone who inspires their team members. They should create high energy and enthusiasm for the job.
The team leader should know how to resolve problems and increase collaboration among team members. They understand that conflict can affect productivity and morale and therefore shouldn’t go unnoticed. They are aware of issues and step in to help resolve them in a timely manner, focusing on cooperation, not competition.
When building your high performance teams, ensure you recruit a team leader with exceptional leadership skills. It is fundamental they know how to lead and manage a team. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are something you should also look out for during the hiring process.
3. Encourage open, honest communication
A distinctive characteristic of high performing teams is the high level of open, honest and truthful communication between all members of the team. Total transparency between managers and team members is necessary and should be strongly implemented. Without trust and honesty, the team will crumble. They will not be able to solve problems or make decisions. The last thing you want is your team to be crippled with conflict.
Encourage regular check-in’s with team members. Teach them communication skills if they struggle to express themselves. Constructive feedback is a must so that members can continue to grow and develop their skills. Allow team members to also disclose any concerns or problems they may have. If you build your team correctly from the start, you are sure to see positive results.
4. Celebrate success from the get-go
Start as you mean to go on. Share good news and celebrate successes – big or small. High performing teams are motivated by their wins and successes so don’t be afraid to shout it to the world when you’ve reached that over-arching target or landed a new client.
You can celebrate successes during your weekly check-ins or by trying one of our fun, engaging team building activities like Peak Perfomance. This gives your team the chance to build close-knit relationships based on mutual trust and friendship.
How about trying some of our outdoor activities such as the Altitude Package or Target Zone? These challenges really bring out employees true characteristics from behind the office desk! Contact us today for a quote or more information.
