Problems on the Team: A Mini Case Study – Part II

Why do I have to be involved in this initiative!

Read Part I for background information.

What might be the primary reasons for the team feeling as they are?

The team likely does not understand the value of teamwork and the benefits of being a member of this team. It is also likely that limited, if any, time has been spent on building a team environment. They don’t appear to understand why they are a part of the team, which means they don’t understand how they can contribute to the team – individually and as a team.

What should be done at this point?

Meet one-on-one with team members to understand their concerns more fully and determine commitment to team and teamwork. Understanding their past experiences on teams will help in getting them committed to this team and to the project

1. Meet with the team as a whole to discuss:
   1. Purpose of the team
   2. Goals of team
   3. How they will work together
   4. How they will be recognized for their efforts both individually and, more importantly, as a team
   5. Collaborate with the team to establish roles and responsibilities
   6. How they will operate as a team (problem solve, resolve conflicts, make decisions, meetings and reporting on status, etc.)
2. Hold a team building event so the team members get to know each other and begin to build trust. You need to establish a relationship to begin to build trust and work together as a team.

What should have been done from day one to potentially avoid these issues?

The team leader needed to spend time before the launch of the initiative enabling for the team to get to know each other, establish operating procedures for the team and ensuring they understand how they can contribute to the success of the initiative. It is important to understand the members of the team you will lead so that you understand how to engage and motivate them and keep them committed to the project. To do this – you must build relationships with each and every one and understand their own goals and objectives and work to map those goals and objectives to achieving the goals and objectives of the project.