Key Characteristics of an Effective Team

• Key Characteristics of Effective Teams:
• Clarity of purpose:

  • The purpose of the team must be clearly defined in concrete and measurable objectives
  • Effective teams know how their work contributes toward an organizational goal
  • The team leader reminds members of how each team member makes business success possible
• Good communication:

  • Open and accurate communication between team members and between the team and the larger organization is critical
  • Communication involves establishing roles, making plans, and following standard business protocols and procedures
• Positive role for conflict:

  • Effective teams use conflict to improve decision-making and problem-solving processes
• Accountability and commitment:

  • Each team member understands their role and takes responsibility for their actions
  • Team members take proactive measures to complete tasks and alert management when problems arise
  • Members are committed to achieving the team's purpose and demonstrate the behavior needed to meet goals
  • Team members have the authority to do what is necessary without constant checking
  • Incentives and rewards are given on both individual and team bases
• Shared leadership:

  • Effective team members are willing to assume leadership roles when appropriate
  • Shared leadership reinforces shared responsibility, increases morale, and improves team performance
• Positive group dynamics:

  • Interpersonal relationships in effective teams are built on trust, respect, honesty, and acceptance
  • Conflict may occur, but a positive group dynamic focuses the conflict productively