Idea 22: Teambuilding – the functions of the leader
‘Teamwork is no accident, it is a by - product of good leadership.’
Teambuilding is part of the core organic leadership role: the trinity of task, team and individual.
One of the main results of good leadership is a good team. We talk about what makes a great team in Idea 27, but it can be briefly expressed as:
- having a clear sense of direction and works hard and effectively.
- being confident in its ability to achieve specific, challenging objectives.
- believing in and identifying with the organization.
- holding together when the going gets rough.
- having respect for and trust in its leader.
- adapting to the changing world.
In achieving the task, building the team and developing the individual, while you may have your own style as leader, you do have to:
- Be active in setting direction and accepting the risks of leadership.
- Be able to communicate direction and objectives clearly and keep your people in the picture.
- Use the appropriate behaviour to gain commitment for the achievement of specific objectives.
- Maintain high standards of personal performance and demand high standards of performance from others.
Leaders in teambuilding are responsible for ensuring that the key functions are being done properly:
- Defining the task.
- Planning.
- Briefing.
- Controlling.
- Evaluating.
- Supporting.
- Motivating.
- Setting an example.
If you give people respect, trust and some real responsibility, together with a degree of independence, they will reward you by giving their best to the common task and to the team.
The gold-standard leader in teambuilding must act as:
- Encourager.
- Harmonizer.
- Compromiser.
- Bridge builder.
- Expediter/gatekeeper.
- Standard setter.
- Group observer/commentator.
- Catalyst for change.
When leaders are worthy of respect, the people are willing to work for them. When their virtue is worthy of admiration, their authority can be established.
Haunanzi (Chinese philosopher, 4th century BCE)