As leaders, we all can appreciate a little, or a lot of help in performing our work responsibilities. In a fast-paced, demanding work environment, most leaders have a lot to do and not enough resources, time, or energy to get it done. On high-performing teams, members cultivate a desire to serve others and are genuinely concerned about one another’s success. Here are three simple tips to help you build a team culture that has a spirit of inclusion, rewarding relationships, and people who are willing to give and help each other.
Inclusive Culture
You may have some team members who willingly share their perspectives, ideas, and opinions. You may also have team members who tend to hold back their opinions. They may see things in a different way than other team members and shy away from contributing innovative ideas and their unique point of view. It is important to give these team members a voice. Seeking their input with an accepting mindset will help the person feel like they can add insights and are truly a valuable part of the team with the capacity to give and contribute their strengths and abilities.
Cross-Team Collaboration
Provide team members and yourself with opportunities to learn new skills, grow, and collaborate outside of regular responsibilities. There are opportunities all around to help and give service outside of our station. Every organization and team has “white space” that is a visual description of the activities, tasks, roles, and responsibilities that are not clearly defined by current roles and responsibilities, boundaries, or structures. The white space is where important tasks, activities, and problems can fall between the cracks.
Create a culture on your team where team members can step in when they see something that needs to be done and take the initiative to do something about problems or opportunities that fall in the white space. This kind of effort transforms organizations and builds highly accountable, unified teams. As a leader you can show your team that you too are a team player by expressing support, providing recognition, and helping team members in need.
Provide Feedback
Give team members supportive and constructive feedback. When we receive help from team members, it is important to talk with them about what worked well and what could have been done differently. Being supportive and kind with our words and our tone when providing feedback, helps team members understand that their help and contribution is valued. They will be more open to new or different approaches in the future. Feedback is the ideal way to direct and guide team members to help in the ways you need it most.
When team members feel valued and included in the process, they will take more responsibility and demonstrate more pride in their work, which will unleash discretionary performance. Your team will be on the fast track to new levels of success as team members experience and understand the three elements of the reciprocal support equation:
- An awareness of when others need help, plus
- A willingness to give or offer help in a genuine way, plus
- The ability and courage to accept help when needed in return.
The result is an unstoppable team where people find personal and professional satisfaction.
About the Author
Di Snarr joined the CMOE team in 2016 and supports the business as a Shipping and Production Specialist. Di plays a critical role in the production, assembly, and shipment of all products and materials for client workshops and events. She devotes her time and talents to ensuring the accuracy and professional quality of every order she fulfills for our clients. Di is also a very versatile team player, and offers support in various other aspects of the business.
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