Build Effective Teams
Effective teams are those that recognise and utilise the expertise, skillsets and personal needs of all team members in a respectful, creative and rewarding manner. Time spent by the manager getting to know his or her staff, what skills they have to offer, how they respond to direction and how to get the best out of them, is time well spent. Transparency and a direct, respectful and assertive communication style can be some of a manager’s most effective tools.
Managing staff expectations and ensuring they know what is required in their respective roles (including sufficient familiarisation and orienting time at the beginning of employment) can save a lot of heartache down the track. Encouraging staff to share their skills and knowledge while also fostering an environment which keeps team members ‘ in the loop,’ is an important step in keeping a sense of harmony and mutual appreciation present in the workplace.
Foster Staff Growth and Development
Mentor programs, delegation, special projects, rotations and other strategies that encourage staff growth and development as well as ongoing recognition for their contributions, can help staff feel that they are trusted and valued members of the team.
When we feel we have something to offer in a team and are appreciated for our efforts, we are far more inclined to want to stay in such an environment. An effective team recognises the importance of the give/take paradigm and has clarity around dual accountability principles.
Teams that feel appreciated and valued are far more inclined to show initiative and “go the extra mile” without feeling used in the process. It is sometimes important that managers discourage individuals from doing more than is appropriate and healthy for their general health and wellbeing, and challenge their staff to learn to “pace” themselves more efficiently. Of course, this also means that managers need to ensure that they “practise what they preach.” Head to our Organisational Support Services page for more.
Management For an Effective Team
It is also important that staff know that management has a firm handle on where the team is at present, what is required to maintain this, future directions and ideas about how best to get there while keeping in mind budgetary constraints and customer-specific needs and requirements. Staff also need to understand that management will do what needs to be done and will follow through with decisions made and/or needed, including the tough ones. Regular individual and team reviews (both informal and more formal) are important to keep track of individual and team developmental needs and to monitor achievements and progress made. Head to our Leadership Support Page for more.
Well-thought-out, easily-accessible, specific and up-to-date policy and procedure guides can help staff to understand their rights and responsibilities, enhance their understanding of the businesses they are in and improve overall staff well-being and team productivity.
Get In Touch
If we are your EAP provider and you would like further support, you can book a confidential counsellor session on 1800 818 728 or login to the booking portal to schedule a session.
For all other enquiries, feel free to contact us