One of the responsibilities of a leader is to encourage team communication. That open discussion of strategic goals the company is achieving, projects that need completion, issues that need resolution are all important elements of a successful team. Barriers stop the achievement of these elements.
WHAT SHOULD A LEADER DO?
ANSWER - Break down those barriers. Some approaches that make sense.
- Create consensus - everyone “rowing in the same direction”
- Create a culture of active listening (which helps in creating consensus) Leaders need to participate in discovery, process, and solution of the goals/projects.
- Remove roadblocks - wish I would have understood this earlier in my management career.
- Good leaders can manage to remove barriers in most cases. However, there is a barrier that is hard to overcome.
THE TEAM MUST WANT TO SUCCEED!
What would make a team member not want to succeed? I think the crucial part is the word “succeed.” Consensus is not alignment. Alignment of goals, needs, and motivation are overlooked elements to the word “succeed.” What is the difference between an aligned and non-aligned team:
Alignment to the goals is key. Verifying that your team is in alignment is tougher. Ask the tough questions, set definable benchmarks, and hold the team accountable.
This post was originally published on David’s blog Connecting the [Data]…
David Haynes, NCARB, PMP, LEED AP
Ideate Director of Consulting
David is a Registered Architect, Project Management Certified Professional, who previously had his own architectural practice and was President of a commercial design–build construction company for 15 years. A graduate of University of Arizona, he has worked as an Architect, contractor, developer and as a national construction manager for a national retailer. David currently provides business process analysis, data integration, and change management solutions for AEC clients across the United States involved in the design and construction industry. Follow David on Twitter.