The question of teamwork is vast. That said, a number of items relating directly to the theme of performance can be examined. Accordingly, we begin today a series of postings looking at teamwork, starting with the essential skill of getting personnel to operate at their full potential by way of various directing methods.
The way we communicate with others and with ourselves ultimately determines the quality of our lives
Anthony Robbins, personal development guru.
A team, once formed needs direction if success is to be achieved. A key task of the leader, for the sake of argument let’s refer to this person as the stage director, manager or team coach, is the conveying of instructions. Regardless of the nature of the business, a number of approaches may be adopted to achieve this objective.
Mentoring
Being most likely an experienced technician, the leader is able to transmit expertise and best practices by undertaking similar duties to those of the team. By actually working, explaining actions and permitting the team members to be closely involved in the execution of duties, a feel for the work is passed on naturally.
Demonstrating
Practical demonstrations and front-of-the-room presentations might be suitable in certain cases. Technical information can be communicated in this way, together with broad outlines of objectives and strategies for their implementation. Team members will be expected to interpret instructions into personalized performances, giving life to their own creations in line with the desired team objectives.
Scripting
By scripting or mapping out every step of the desired performance, it is hoped successful duplication will be possible on future occasions. The cast making up the team might change, yet by following clearly structured procedures the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the team will not be unduly affected. Call centre operators, for example, are often directed in this manner to ensure consistency of service throughout the organization.
Ongoing dialogue
As actions are carried out and workers perform their assigned tasks the leader is able to make suggestions, tweak operations and generally keep things on course by way of an ongoing dialogue. Any potential problems in this way will come to light immediately and can be rectified before they escalate out of control. If undertaken well, the leader’s presence during the execution of duties won’t be seen as a hindrance, but rather as a support and advantage to the team.
Next time we will be looking at how to harness team spirit for the sake of producing winning performances. In the meantime, if you would like to raise any matters concerning performance, leadership or other related matters please leave a comment below. We look forward to hearing from you.
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