Play to Your Strengths

Here's 5 great reasons to build your team versus lead a group of solo contributor. Employees will...

 

#1. Gain perspective. Left alone, individuals see the world through the narrow lenses of their own projects and goals. Yet the biggest opportunities for improvement are in the white spaces between projects and functions. Team members need the vantage of different perspectives to see these opportunities and how their actions can contribute to the larger goals.

#2. Access other's talents. None of us is as smart as all of us. Getting things done requires the collective wisdom and talents of everyone involved. High performing teams know how to capitalize on individual talents and leverage differences to get things done. Rather than being the source of conflicts, team member talents are valued and appreciated for what they bring to the table.

#3. Improve communication. Let's face it, most individuals are too busy to reach out and connect in a meaningful way. Solid teamwork promotes vital communication that goes beyond status reporting. Ideally, individuals share challenges and opportunities and offer up ideas to help each other succeed. 

#4. Feel connected. Too often smart, talented individuals feel isolated as they work towards their goals. Employees want to feel they are a part of something bigger than themselves. Building a team develops this sense of connection, mutual support and peer coaching. Better communication enhances both retention and morale.

#5. Build trust. Separation breeds suspicion and mistrust. So don't wait for mistrust to rear its ugly head. Bring team members together on a regular basis to promote trust and mutual respect. Be proactive and encourage employees to get to know each other as people. With increased trust, your team has greater agility and influence.

 

So get started to day and build your team!