The whole should be greater than the sum of its parts. Good teamwork should always lead to great results. We all know that this is not always the case. In addition to factors like "groupthink," there are a few more that should be considered when building a team or working as a team. Patrick Lencioni has written a great book about this, which we highly recommend. In"The Five Dysfunctions of a Team",he talks about five major obstacles that can disrupt the balance of a team. Let's break that down:

  1. Trust is the glue that holds a team together. Without trust, people cannot be open with each other, and everything becomes somewhat uncomfortable. So, teams should be open, honest, and there for each other.
  2. You know how some teams try to avoid any disagreements? Well, that's not good. Healthy conflict is actually a good thing. It helps exchange ideas and come up with better solutions. So, let's engage in discussions!
  3. When a decision is made, everyone needs to be on board. Being indecisive and keeping reservations to oneself doesn't help anyone. Team members should stand by their decisions.
  4. It's very important that people take responsibility for their actions. Sometimes it's as if no one wants to hold the slacker in the group accountable. Holding each other accountable is crucial to moving things forward.
  5. Teams should focus on the team's goals and the organization's success. When personal egos and agendas take precedence, the team falters.

To address these issues, it's essential to start with building trust. Share your feelings, be vulnerable, and create a safe space for everyone. Then, welcome those healthy discussions and don't shy away from disagreements. Once a decision is made, stick to it and get everyone on board. Hold each other accountable for your tasks, and don't let anyone slack off. And always keep the team's goals in sight.

By addressing these dysfunctions openly and creating a relaxed and supportive team environment, you will be on the path to success and great results!