More than the sum of units - three features of a winning team

When the sound of individual instruments in the orchestra permeates each other, they form a harmonious melody together. Success depends both on the commitment of each of the musicians and the conductor. Similarly, "matching" the competences and skills of employees helps to effectively achieve common goals. What can a manager and team members do to collaborate "concertically"?

The way in which individual employees act, acquire knowledge or communicate affects others. The best results can be achieved when the crew is composed of people presenting different styles of thinking and different ways of accomplishing tasks. When at the same time all members are aware of the advantages and disadvantages of each style, they can learn from each other and work to overcome any inconveniences. A team is more than just a group of people aware of a common goal. Its members rely on the knowledge, skills and talents of others to complement each other.

1. seeing the best in people

In order for a band to "play" like the best orchestra, it is important to take into account and use the individual qualities and predispositions of its members. Knowing your and your colleagues' talents, skills and strengths will help you to divide roles and functions within your assignments so that you can make the most of each person's potential. It is also worth considering mutual suggestions and ideas and using the best methods of action developed by individual employees as soon as possible. As a manager, first make sure that everyone knows and shares not only their own tasks and goals, but also those of the entire organisation. Acceptance of common values, norms, expectations and needs helps to create a harmonious team and friendly atmosphere.

2. the flow of information

One of the key issues for effective cooperation is communication. In the relationship between a superior and a subordinate, do not be afraid to ask questions, draw conclusions together or listen carefully. Talk openly not only about work, performance, company climate, goals and organizational problems, but also about less professional matters. An efficient flow of information is also very important between co-workers. So if you are a member of a team, listen to others, give them time to express their opinions, comments or expectations, let them express ideas and opinions, and do it yourself in an open and open way. The ability to talk about any subject, even difficult and unpleasant ones, helps to understand each other. However, what is needed is a willingness to communicate and trust. Don't be afraid to ask questions, it's much better than "mind reading", which sometimes leads to unfounded rumours. If they do, never treat them as equivalent to official messages. Keep your information flowing smoothly even if your workplace is subdivided into subgroups. Consider the experiences and expectations of other team members without fighting each other or unhealthy competition, barriers or groups excluded from the general public.

3. creative exchanges of views and jokes

In addition to the exchange of knowledge, experience and information, emotional support is also important for the team. So take into account the condition and well-being of your colleagues and avoid activities that may cause them harm or distress. Instead, try to understand their current situation, problems, opportunities and needs without prejudice. It is a good idea to develop the habit of directly asking each other for help and support. Some bands also have their own ways of defusing tensions together, for example by telling jokes, but of course not at the expense of others. For some, caring for good relationships in the workplace can be dangerously close to creating a social group; for others, excessive rigidity and mutual animosity is a short way to unnecessary stress and distraction at work. However, we should not go to extremes - group relations should not hinder concentration on tasks, but create a climate of creative exchange of views and cooperation.

When we ensure the proper division of tasks, taking into account the skills and predispositions of individual members, the free flow of information, as well as the exchange of views and mutual respect, the team functions more harmoniously. Then the performers of the individual tasks form a "harmonious orchestra", i.e. they work without wasting unnecessary energy and time. We should also remember that every employee has a certain influence on the atmosphere and relations in the workplace. So it's up to us whether we give as much of ourselves as the situation or the common good requires, or whether we help those who are temporarily unable to operate at a satisfactory level, so that the overall result of the team will not decrease.