Examples of Team Development
01
Within the first month, I took each member out to lunch at a restaurant of their choice. I used my active listening skills to explore the following questions:
- When do you come alive in your work? When are you thriving?
- What are your biggest motivators and stressors right now?
- What are your hopes for this team and our growth?
02
Within the first month, I had a half-day, off-site team meeting that was intended to be fun and allow time for conversation. We spent 3 hours paddle boarding down a local river. I asked the team to briefly share their life story and what they are passionate about when it comes to their work.
03
I established a check-in rhythm of meeting weekly as a team and monthly for one-on-ones. We report out on what was accomplished the week prior, our objectives for the week ahead, and what support we will need from others.
04
As much as possible, I assign work based on the unique passions and skill set of each team member.
05
I emphasize our core purpose and values at the beginning of each team meeting and restate our role as individuals and a team in working towards them.
06
In the coming year, we have two team retreats scheduled. One to focus primarily on the team’s purpose and developing our team community. The second, a development retreat to grow in a common role-specific skill.
07
I had a 360° leadership assessment completed and followed up individually over lunch with each team member to share my discoveries, learnings and action steps.
08
I call out the accomplishments of my team and celebrate the work they have done. I also encourage them to do the same with one another.
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Hopefully these ideas can prime the pump for you and your leadership. Whether you are a first-time team leader like myself, or a seasoned vet, I encourage you to lead in a way that accomplishes the team’s purpose and fulfills its people.
I firmly believe a team leader’s role is to “Lower the mountains and raise the valleys,” to make as clear a way forward as possible.Â
Use your authority and influence to serve and enrich your team. Go on, I dare you. See what happens.