Return to site
Return to site

High-Performing Teams Share These 4 Traits

by Dano Moreno

· Leadership,Management,Employee Engagement,Workplace Culture,Collaboration

Leading isn’t easy. Every person in a team is unique, and change is constant. Yet, there’s one thing that remains the same: We all share a common set of needs. Understanding these needs can help leaders cultivate teams that are engaged and effective.

The 4 pillars of high-performing teams

We’ve uncovered some clear themes in our work with organizations and coalitions, as well as our own organization, which is comprised of 50 people. Teams accomplish more when there is 1) clarity, 2) support, 3) empathy, and 4) trust. Clarity and support help ensure people have the knowledge and resources needed to operate successfully. Empathy and trust provide meaning and motivation, which inspire people to do their best work.

broken image

Whether assessing your organizational culture or giving performance feedback, this framework can serve as a guide. Here are some key questions to ask yourself (or better yet, your team!):

Pillar #1: Clarity

How well does your team:

  • Understand what’s expected of them?
  • Know how they’re performing?
  • See how their work contributes to the organization’s mission?

Pillar #2: Support

To what extent does your team have:

  • The information needed to achieve their goals?
  • The resources needed to work efficiently and effectively?
  • Opportunities for professional development?

Pillar #3: Empathy

How frequently does your team:

  • Welcome and consider different perspectives?
  • Experience compassion and gratitude?
  • Recognize how their work helps others?

Pillar #4: Trust

Does your team feel they:

  • Are treated fairly?
  • Can count on each other?
  • Are able to complete tasks with a reasonable level of flexibility and autonomy?

Communication is the foundation

Each pillar is upheld by communication. It takes minutes to review roles and expectations (Pillar #1). It takes seconds to share a heartfelt thanks (Pillar #3). And it’s time well spent. Intentional communication today prevents unintentional problems tomorrow.

Think of the last conversation that gave you a new sense of clarity, support, empathy, or trust. These are the types of conversations we value—and even crave. In high-performing teams, these conversations are common. They’re ingrained in the culture. And they’re the foundation for success.

CivCom conducts organizational assessments and provides interactive trainings. Contact us for a free consultation.

broken image

© 2019 Civic Communications, LLC

 

Subscribe
Previous
5 Tips to Build Support for Harm Reduction Initiatives
Next
7 Facts Every Tobacco Control Advocate and Policymaker...
 Return to site
Profile picture
Cancel
Cookie Use
We use cookies to improve browsing experience, security, and data collection. By accepting, you agree to the use of cookies for advertising and analytics. You can change your cookie settings at any time. Learn More
Accept all
Settings
Decline All
Cookie Settings
Necessary Cookies
These cookies enable core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility. These cookies can’t be switched off.
Analytics Cookies
These cookies help us better understand how visitors interact with our website and help us discover errors.
Preferences Cookies
These cookies allow the website to remember choices you've made to provide enhanced functionality and personalization.
Save