Team building from within

What does it take to have a team with great team spirit and teamwork? Some leaders take team building to an unnecessary level. You don’t need to hire a firm or consultant from outside your organization to achieve this. Team building does not require hiring a third party, performing assessments, or structured testing.

Keep it simple! Get to know your own team, encourage them to get to know each other, and get involved. Take time out of your day to talk with each staffer. Depending on the size of your team this could take a few minutes or an hour, but it is important. This does not necessarily mean getting personal–you can keep it business. It really is up to you. Just create an ongoing dialogue with each team member and incorporate that time into your daily routine.

During your dialog with each team member, it is okay to share things you like and what you are passionate about. Find out the same from them if they are willing to share. If you allow them to get to know you on at least somewhat of a personal level, they will feel more comfortable with you as a person, not just as their boss.

Show them you are passionate about helping them succeed. If they know you are vested in their success, they will have a greater drive to be the best they can be. Understanding each team member’s weaknesses and strengths is also very important. Use this information to develop your daily schedule to not only pull from their strengths but take the opportunity to train areas of improvement.

 

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