by Sue James
Managing any team or group of people can be like herding cats!
Different personalities, opinions or working styles can sometimes get in the way when we are trying to develop an effective team.
Try using the following tips to help you herd the cats in your team.
C = Clarity
Provide all team members with a clear explanation of desired goals and outcomes. Make very clear what you expect of each individual member as well as the whole team. Help the group clarify how they will work together and what each person's responsibilities will be.
A = Acceptance
Accept differences between the working styles and personalities of team members. Create your teams and your project requirements with these in mind. Encourage different opinions or approaches. When managed well, diversity builds success and is not a barrier to it.
T = Trust
Allow team members autonomy in how they work to achieve results. Monitor progress, but don't micro-manage! Praise in public, but (should you need to do so) correct in private.
S = Share Successes
Celebrate team successes with others, both in and outside your business. Encourage a 'team culture' by focusing on what the team has achieved together, rather than on individual achievements.
Herd these C.A.T.S. well, and you will build a successful team!
