Theres no I in Team

While it is a fact that there is no I in team, there definitely is an

I in failure. Depending upon what your outlook and final desire,
that supposed missing I can become quite significant.
Team building is as much a science as it is an art as there are no
absolutes and there are no guarantees. A team is defined as a
number of persons associated together in work or activity or as a
group on one side. With this definition in mind there really is no
room for I.
While the first impression might be of a cheesy clich, there is a
great deal of truth and power in the that there is no I in team.
Teams have long endured as a staple of human existence dating
back to ancient man. Teams, or clan families, were formed for
several reasons, the most notable being that there was safety in
numbers.
Ancient man quickly learned that being alone on the great plains
was not a wise choice and a credibly fatal one. Similar to the
corporate landscape, being part of a thriving and cooperative team
is often times better than going it alone.

Prepared & Compiled by: Matt

 Work Distribution
Other reasons why ancient man formed teams was to distribute
work to those best capable of handling the specific task activities.
In the todays modern world . . . we do the same thing.
We have carpenters, lawyers, engineers, doctors, electricians, and
host of other career paths to balance out the professional family.
So where's the rub? That is truly the $64,000 question of human
nature. Why don't people want to get along and occupy their
assumed role?
Well, as you all know, sometimes we are not all satisfied with the
outcome or our paths. This often leads to contempt, anger,
jealousy, and at times envy. Nothing new. These behaviors
combined with the stress of traffic, families, and life in general can
do a lot towards tearing down teams. When coupled, or directed,
with discrimination, the problem is exacerbated.
So what do you do? Well, first, you have to believe in the team
concept whole heartedly and be fair in your decision making. If
you do not, your corruption will eventually come to light and all of
your efforts will crumble. The last thing is for you to believe in the
team concept.

Prepared & Compiled by: Matt

 Concept & Merits
Believing in the concept and its merits is of utmost importance as
without this deep rooted internal belief there will be nothing of
substance for the group to adhere. Why is this so important?
Your belief in the team is crucial as initially the team members will
draw upon your belief and vision for the future.
It will be up to you as the project manager to have both the vision
and an honest desire for team success. Placing the team ahead of
your own glory, placing the team ahead of your own direct gain will
be be required. I state this as this assumed posture allows the
team to grow and team members to enjoy success.
In other words, the more successfully the team, the more
successful you will have become. Recognition, accolades, and
financial gain will come on its own. This does not mean that it will
become your responsibility to ensure that each team member is
successful. No, each member is responsible for their own success.
It is your responsibility to ensure that they have the opportunity to
succeed.

Prepared & Compiled by: Matt

 Steps Taken
Now that we are all in agreement that there is no I in team,
what do we do? First step, simple. Listen. Take the time to get
to know each of the members of your team as well as you can.
This will allow you to best anticipate behaviors, motives, and to
predict reactions to policy change. Second, actively seek
collaborators and stakeholders within your team.
These collaborative stakeholders are the individuals whom will
assist you with developing and building a cohesive team. Third,
maintain your humility. Being humble does not mean that you do
not lead or have goals and expectations of your team.
In this respect being humble allows you to relate and empathize
with your team. Forth, communicate, communicate,
communicate. This step is the most critical as without a steady
stream of communications, the vision planted will never take root
or flourish.

Prepared & Compiled by: Matt

 Communications
Communications are often times the chief contributor to
organizational failure as most people have an innate desire to
succeed. The last and final step, repeat the cycle.
This time involve your burgeoning team to solicit further
developing a sense of community. Last but not least, repeat the
cycle.
In order for you to achieve an enduring team you will have to bear
the burden of supporting your team.
Make the commitment to devote time to talk to your team
members on a regular basis by placing it on your calender.

Prepared & Compiled by: Matt

 Leaders Responsibility
A sound team is a high maintenance item that will require
commitment from the leader or project manager for it to succeed.

While the maintenance is on going, it builds the individuals and

allows active participants the opportunity to grow and develop.

Sustaining growth can occur on several avenues providing value

and meaning. As a leader you posses the tools to assist this
growth.

Bringing team members into the decision, initiating

communications plans, and insisting upon respect through your
organization will dramatically reduce stress levels. All of which will
help keep the I out of your team.

Prepared & Compiled by: Matt