Create cohesive, high-performing teams by fostering trust, effective communication, and a shared purpose.

Numerous articles and books exist on building high-performing teams—many base their approach on iconic teams and the formulas those teams use. Most don’t consider the reality that most project or initiative leaders face. I used to look at my experiences with members of SEAL Team Six or professionals from various team sports as a model. I now temper that with a more realistic view.  In the corporate world, you don’t necessarily start with highly motivated and highly skilled resources. Generally, I have found that you get who is available at the time. That can be good or bad, but it is what it is, and you need to deal with the hand you are dealt.  As I say, “It takes all kinds, and you need to meet them where they are….” 

Resources are, of course, an important building block for creating high-performing teams, but if there are challenges in that area, they can be overcome.  Evaluating your team’s resources involves a range of factors, including aptitude in the various areas that support the specific initiative, project, or mission. Diversity is essential—you can’t have five superstar quarterbacks and meet all your needs. One that is often less prioritized is attitude. Attitude and positive energy can overcome a great deal of expertise gaps. 

If you, as a leader, can build individual and group trust along with a shared purpose, then camaraderie, cohesiveness, and collaboration can combine to meet the initiative’s needs.  You can also augment with specialty talent, which may be more efficient and effective for the resource themselves, the initiative, and the organization as a whole.

The key then becomes effective communication.  As a team leader, you need to be the conductor of the orchestra. Everyone needs to understand the mission and what success looks like, their role in the mission, the timing of tasks and activities, and the values associated with decision-making.  When doubt creeps in, performance suffers….

All the best in building your high-performing teams!

Do some good!

Rich