Idea 23: Achieving the task – with a team

To assess how well you achieve tasks with your team, think about the following questions and answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to each. For each question that you have answered with a ‘no’ (or in the case of ‘training’ and ‘supervision’ with an unsatisfactory outcome), define how you are going to put things right – and by when.

• Purpose: Am I clear what the task is?
• Responsibilities: Am I clear what mine are?
• Objectives: Have I agreed these with my superior, the person accountable for the group?
• Programme: Have I worked one out to reach objectives?
• Working conditions: Are these right for the job?
• Resources: Are these adequate (authority, money, materials)?
• Targets: Has each member clearly defined and agreed them?
• Authority: Is the line of authority clear (on the accountability chart)?
• Training: Are there any gaps in the specialist skills or abilities of individuals in the group required for the task?
• Priorities: Have I planned the time effectively?
• Progress: Do I check this regularly and evaluate?
• Supervision: In case of my absence, who covers for me?
• Example: Do I set standards by my behaviour?