The ‘i’ every team needs

Matilda is a high performer, she kicks goals, and makes quick and decisive decisions. Matilda has a bit of a hero status amongst the junior consultants who both revere her and fear her. She sees herself as the Ronaldo of the team, a world class champion.

Matilda is a genius, however, her focus is on being a champion and not on being part of a champion team.

Jasmine is equally a high performer; she displays a talent that shines way above her colleagues. Jasmine kicks goals, is decisive, and consistently overachieves and delivers. The difference is that she takes others with her, is less ego driven and more driven by the overall success and sustainability of the team, and the results they achieve. Jasmine see’s herself as more of a Messi.

When she has a clear run she shoots for goals and is equally happy to set up the opportunity for others to score. She sets up as many goals as she scores. This is reflected in the results of the team. Jasmine is focused on creating a champion team and sees herself as part of the team.

Teams that invest in working on the team, as well as in the team, thrive by multiplying both the results that they achieve and how much fun they have. This naturally and easily raises engagement, collaboration and confidence. They focus on the team’s performance and less on their own performance.

Investment in the team requires a more team-focused approach, with less individual focus. Yes, it’s important to put yourself in the equation. But it’s when we stay there driven by our own agenda, and rigidly holding our own position that we derail the team’s potential and results.

“A high performing team is a system—a living system” —

Phillip Sandahl, co-founder of Team Coaching International 

Teams are a living, breathing ecosystem that require active and conscious investment in order for to grow and thrive. It’s not a system without predators, internal conflict and pitfalls.

However, high performing teams are able to navigate their way through challenges together; they move beyond overly polite fear-based behaviours and they get stuff done.

Where is your team in the team equation?

This blog was first published in SmartCompany

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