Idea 24: Building the team

Answer the questions below honestly, ‘yes’ or ‘no’. If the answer is ‘no’ to any question, work out what you need to do to put matters right – and set yourself an achievable time target within which to do it.

• Objectives: Does the team clearly understand and accept them?
• Standards: Do they know what standards of performance are expected?
• Safety standards: Do they know the consequences of infringement?
• Size of team: Is there an appropriate number of people?
• Team members: Are the right people working together? Is there a need for sub-groups to be formed?
• Team spirit: Do I look for opportunities for building teamwork into jobs? Do methods of pay and bonus help to develop team spirit?
• Discipline: Are the rules seen to be reasonable? Am I fair and impartial in enforcing them?
• Grievances: Are grievances dealt with promptly? Do I take action on matters that are likely to disrupt the group?
• Consultation: Is this genuine? Do I encourage and welcome ideas and suggestions?
• Briefing: Is this regular? Does it cover current plans, progress and future developments?
• Representation: Am I prepared to represent the feelings or views of the group when required?
• Support: Do I visit people at their work when the team is apart? Do I then represent to the individual the whole team in my manner and encouragement?