Beyond Team Building

5CHANGE MANAGEMENT: HOW EFFECTIVE TEAMS IMPROVE THEIR PERFORMANCE

The fourth C refers to change, the key meta-competency in our model. High-performing teams are not only aware of what is impeding their performance but are able to take corrective action to solve their problems and achieve their goals. In this chapter, we discuss (1) the common problems found in teams and how to diagnose them, (2) how to determine whether the team itself can solve its problems or whether a facilitator or consultant is needed, and (3) the basic elements of programs designed to initiate change within the team. In Chapter 7 we will discuss in greater detail how organizations can put together team-building programs that are organization-wide.

Common Problems Found in Teams

Usually a team-building program is undertaken when a concern, problem, issue, or set of symptoms leads the manager or other members of the team to believe that the effectiveness of the team is not what it could be. The following symptoms or conditions usually provoke serious thought or remedial action:

• Failure to achieve team goals
• A reduction in productivity
• Unexplained increase in costs
• Increases in grievances or complaints from team members
• Complaints from clients about quality of the product or service
• Conflict among team members
• Confusion about assignments
• Lack of broad team support for decisions
• Decisions not carried out properly—lack of follow-through
• Apathy and general lack of interest or involvement of team members