Key Characteristics of an Effective Team - Dick Massimilian
 

Key Characteristics of an Effective Team

Key Characteristics of an Effective Team

Written By Dick Massimilian
Published Spring 2021


Truly effective teams all possess the same foundational competency: commitment to a common purpose. These are teams in which corporate, team and individual purposes are aligned. Without a common purpose, teams are misaligned and inefficient. As such, the three key characteristics of an effective team relate back to this foundational competency.

Three Characteristics of an Effective Team

Effective Teams Articulate a Purpose

Effective teams have a clear purpose. In addition, there has to be a clear line of sight between the purpose of the team, the purpose of the organization and the purpose of the individual. When a team’s purpose is clearly articulated, team members are more productive and invested in achieving that purpose.

Effective Teams Understand the Link Between Roles and Purpose

One of the most important characteristics of an effective team is that individuals understand the link between their role as a team member and the purposes of the team and organization. Members of high-performing teams are aware of their responsibilities and how those responsibilities contribute to achieving the purposes of the team and organization. Clearly explaining this link ensures team members know what to aim for individually and collectively in order to achieve the intended purpose.

Effective Teams Practice Open Communication

Open communication is one of the key characteristics of an effective team because it keeps everyone on the path to project completion. Effective teams have communication plans in place to manage misalignment or road blocks. Teams that practice open communication are capable of addressing and solving problems quickly and efficiently. In addition, effective communication helps ensure everyone is on the same page and aligned on the purpose.

All of the above characteristics of an effective team center around maintaining alignment between corporate, team and individual purposes. Without this commitment to a common purpose, team effectiveness suffers.

Throughout the years, I’ve worked with teams of different sizes and industries. Moreover, my experience has given me a thorough understanding of the common characteristics of an effective team. If you’re interested in building a better team through my customized programs and assessments, get in touch with me today. I also speak to teams on what it takes to build effective teams that make better decisions together faster. To book me as a professional speaker for an upcoming event, click here.

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