An effective team has a number of ‘building blocks’ in place.
Clear objectives
There are mutually-agreed aims and objectives, and everyone has a clear understanding of these.
Balanced roles
There is a good balance of skills, abilities and aspirations. Team members have a clear understanding of each individual’s role in achieving overall team objectives. (Find out more about team roles).
Effective processes
There are good processes for making, communicating, implementing and reviewing decisions. There are effective information systems and co-ordination of resources.
Good communication
Meetings are productive and there is effective communication up, down and across the organisation.
Appropriate leadership
The team trusts the team leader and feels that it is led in an appropriate way.
Support and trust
People help each other by listening, evaluating, offering ideas, encouraging experimentation and giving support.
Openness and conflict
People express themselves openly and honestly. There is a willingness to work through difficult situations or conflict constructively.
Mutual co-operation
There is a readiness to be involved and committed. Individuals’ abilities, knowledge and experience are pooled and used by the team. There is acceptance of each others’ strengths and weaknesses.
Individual development
‘Mistakes’ are faced openly and used as a vehicle for learning. Individuals are given opportunities to develop new skills and experience.
Sound inter-group relations
The team enjoys good relations with other teams, departments and agencies, each valuing and respecting the other.
Regular review
The team regularly reviews its performance and goals and alters its priorities and practice in the light of review.
Next steps
Is your team effective? Use the team effectiveness checklist (Word, 51.5kb) to understand views and attitudes within your team.
Find out how to develop an effective team,
