In a business, the cohesiveness of your team is paramount.
With a healthy team dynamic, you increase the chance of operational synergy. Operations should run smoother, there should be more communication. And the company culture should be positive, creating a better working environment.
How do you know what will make the most impact? What will the cost be to your company in time and money? Will teambuilding exercises even make a difference? These are common questions that arise when this topic is addressed.
You need impactful, low-cost, and sensible strategies to motivate and inspire your team. In this article, we will discuss seven effective team-building strategies for your business.
What Is Team Building and Why Is It Necessary?
Team building is exactly as it sounds. It is the process of building a strong team. This can be done by organizing events or activities to enhance the bonds of different employees in your business.
The aim of these events is for teams to get to know each other so that ultimately, they will work better together.
The other method of team building is general practices in the organization. This is in terms of communication strategies, recognition, and creating a sense of autonomy. We will explore this concept later.
Teamwork is a vital component of every business. It is always important to keep the team dynamic healthy and look for ways to encourage more effective cooperation.
By taking a multi-faceted approach to team building, you make a stronger and more resilient team in the process.
Top 7 Team Building Strategies
1. Have an Open Book Policy
Encourage transparency in the workplace, from leadership down. Be open with your team about changes in the workplace, leadership’s ideas about their performance, and any other issues relevant to their situation.
You don’t necessarily have to make them aware of every detail that happens behind closed doors. However, a degree of workplace transparency will make them feel more included, and better able to trust leadership.
This should trickle down into the team as well. There should be open and honest communication about each one’s duties and expectations. Many misunderstandings can be cleared up with greater transparency.
2. Show Trust in Your Team
To build a great team, you must show your team that you trust them. And also, that their contribution is essential.
This is an important factor in team building because confident teams are successful teams. Make your team aware that you trust in their knowledge and expertise.
At your weekly meetings, acknowledge the wins, and encourage them to suggest solutions for where they went wrong.
Positive reinforcement can go a long way in creating a successful team dynamic.
3. Greater Responsibility Leads to a Greater Reward
Micro-managing every element of your team sends the wrong message. Dial down the management and give your team more autonomy where possible.
You obviously need to set ground rules and follow certain protocols. Giving each team member, or the team as a whole more responsibility will take a lot of stress off you.
It will also allow them to maximize their potential. Every team member has individual talents that may be of benefit to the business. Not everyone is a leader though, so respect the comfort levels of each team member before assigning greater responsibilities.
4. Freedom Within Borders
Any workplace has a hierarchy. However, delegation is part and parcel of good management.
We understand and appreciate the need for boundaries, but your team should be given the freedom to be creative and innovative. And allowing greater autonomy within the group will introduce more creative thinking and problem-solving on team projects.
It also boosts the self-esteem of team members, when they feel that they play a more active role in making the company vision come to life, it promotes a better company culture.
5. Give Recognition Where It’s Due
Recognize your team members’ achievements. And encourage other team members to do the same.
This does not have to be a complicated procedure. A simple weekly or even monthly announcement will suffice.
The critical aspect is to give recognition where it is due. This does not have to be limited to workplace achievements, although those definitely need to be recognized and rewarded.
Focus on academic achievements, outside qualifications, or even sports successes. A team that feels valued, appreciated, and acknowledged for their personal and work achievements, will translate into a more motivated confident squad.
6. Be The Voice Of Reason
Any diverse group of people consists of different personalities with different ideas. Each person brings their unique skills and talents to the table.
However, like any group, there may be times when they don’t all get along. Personal issues can affect their working relationships. And miscommunication can lead to bigger problems down the line.
Listen to their grievances. Mediation is not just about facilitating communication. It also implies a safe space for discussion and problem-solving.
Too many senior managers sweep interpersonal team issues under the rug, believing that it’s irrelevant to work. If you are seen as open and willing to listen, you will foster a deeper team bond and build a more cohesive team.
7. Make The Investment
Sensible investments lead to greater profits. And this can transcend into team building and team development.
Invest in effective training methods, like recruiting software for your recruiting team. This will give them the necessary tools to work efficiently. And succeed in their roles and as a unit.
On the other hand, you should invest in key interpersonal strategies for general cohesiveness. Examples include:
- Conflict resolution
- Workplace sensitivity
- Inclusiveness training
These courses are often structured around various team-building activities, as well as insightful talks.
Such courses will facilitate interoffice relationships that are harmonious and productive. They will enhance teamwork even more than work-related training.
Conclusion
The HR environment can be challenging and stressful. While a corporate retreat is a quick answer for many businesses, it fails to have the long-lasting impact of other team-building strategies.
To keep your team empowered, confident, and motivated, use the strategies listed above. Make a conscious effort to build a stronger team, and not only your team, but the entire company is sure to benefit.
