High-performing teams can innovate better, retain more talent, and see results faster. On the employee side, being a member of such teams can improve job satisfaction and accelerate growth. But putting together a high-performing team is easier said than done. We have a few keys for you to keep in mind:
1. Positivity
We all know how difficult and stressful work can be. And with the ongoing mental health epidemic, finding ways to bring positivity to the workplace is important. We are not talking about blind positivity where you pretend everything is okay when it’s not. We’re talking about creating a safe environment where people feel supported and celebrated. Recognize all the wins, both big and small. You can do this on a company-wide feed to inspire others or privately with something like an eCard.
2. Creativity
The word creativity doesn’t only refer to artistic abilities. Creativity is about being able to think outside the box and problem solve quickly. Give your employees space to be innovative and come up with their own solutions. Encourage an open atmosphere where even unconventional ideas can be shared. Being able to share without judgement is empowering. Plus, it begins a continuous cycle of innovation and creativity that will continue to grow exponentially.
3. Buy-In
Get your team’s buy-in whenever possible. People are not likely to perform at a higher level until they have bought in to your mission. When they believe in it, they will be more committed and more passionate about their work. This starts on day one – but it doesn’t end after onboarding. Frequently remind your employees what your mission and vision are. Emphasize how that mission has a positive impact on people and/or the world.
4. Purpose
What’s even better than talking about your mission and vision is helping employees see how they fit into it. When they can see how they contribute, you create a strong sense of purpose. Start by being very clear about each team member’s role. Then ensure they understand each other’s roles and how they all fit together as a team. Finally, articulate how each of those roles matter when it comes to the end goal. Working towards a common goal with a team is empowering and fosters camaraderie.
Building high-performing teams is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time, effort, and patience. Finding the right mix of skills and experiences is one of the first steps, but it doesn’t stop there. Create an environment that runs on positivity and creativity. Talk about your mission in a way that makes people want to commit to living it out. And, last but not least, connect your employees to a shared sense of purpose that inspires them daily.