As a
superior, you are both the “architect” and “structural engineer” for your team.
You put in place the four pillars upon which your team is based.
1. “T” for
transparency
Ideas, plans and information are available to everyone in the team. Every
member of the team is required to contribute as well as receive information in
order for it to keep flowing. In your capacity as team architect, it is your
responsibility to steer the flow of information. You decide along with your
team not only what information should be accessible to whom and in what way but
also who should report to whom, when and how.
Tip: On the Intranet (if available)
you can set up newsrooms which are accessible to all team members. Any
documents which are to be used by everyone should be filed here. Project lists,
catalogs of measures or holiday plans can also be maintained and developed jointly
in the newsrooms.
2. “E” for
emotional bonds
Emotional bonds within the team are the mortar which hold work and success
together. Emotions are therefore the second pillar for a solid team. The best
results are achieved when there is a positive working atmosphere. As a
superior, you should demand that each team member work on their team skills and
establish this as a personal objective for your employees. No one should be
allowed to adopt a “lone ranger” attitude and expect others to accept them as they
are.
3. “A” for approach to work
Without this third pillar in the team model, teamwork will quickly break down.
Teach your employees team-oriented time and self-management. This can mean
preparing and holding meetings in a professional manner, choosing the right
information channel (e.g. e-mail, SMS, minutes, meeting) or coming up with
detailed project plans with clearly allocated duties and a firm schedule.
4. “M” for
motivation
Motivation is the fourth pillar of every team. Do not take people’s good work
for granted. Acknowledge outstanding work on the part of your team. Praise
people where appropriate, but do so for major milestones rather than simply for
trivial things.
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