“Good teams become great when the members trust each other enough to surrender the me for the we.”
–Phil Jackson
As leaders, we know just how important it is to develop teams by providing leadership, development, motivation, inspiration, challenge and vision. During times of change and uncertainty, it’s more important than ever to build that sense of team and create energy and interaction on the team. We need to lead by example, showing vulnerability and supporting team members, honoring their feelings and fostering a sense of togetherness.
Now is a great time for you to take the opportunity to explore where your team is and determine what additional support they may need from you as their leader. Here are some things for you to consider:
- What are the behaviors that help you identify if your team is a “me” or a “we’?
- What are the strengths of your team? How have you grown together?
- Are there areas in which you’ve slid backwards? If so, how can you rebuild those areas?
- Is there a high level of trust on the team? What are the behaviors that demonstrate that?
- Do team members feel connected with each other? (Don’t assume connection because of interactions you may have seen, really ask the question to get a true understanding.)
- Do team members seem to be thinking cross-functionally or do you see evidence of them being siloed?
- Are the decisions they are making reinforce the shared vision of the organization?
In creating team, t’s important to meet your team where they are and provide a plan with actionable items to develop and build their evolution so they can progress and stay focused on what matters.
Whether you are in the early stages of development, rebuilding, or your team is thriving, Pathmakers can help you cultivate a team centered around trust and invested relationships; one that lives and breathes your culture and values and drives sustainable results.
