How to Build a High Performing Team

Teams are the backbone of contemporary organizations. And leadership teams can make or break company success. Leaders often point out problems on teams downstream, but leaders have a huge impact on how their teams collaborate across the org. Building an enduring organization is a journey – not an event. It requires uncommon levels of courage and self-discipline.

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Leaders of high performing teams consistently work on:

• Achieving a shared purpose and direction
• Building collaborative relationships
• Defining clear work practices

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Action: You can start small. Find some low-hanging fruit to build momentum that contributes to the list above. Have lunch with a colleague you’ve had a recent disagreement with. Clarify the agenda – or who is really needed – for an upcoming meeting. Reiterate a goal your team is working on.

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Or you can start big. Get the team together to consciously work on psychological safety and strategic alignment for a day or two offsite. As experts in team effectiveness, we’ve often seen the benefits of concentrated time working together.

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Whatever the speed, start now. It’s never too late to positively impact your team. Your colleagues will thank you.

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“Greatness is not a function of circumstance. Greatness, it turns out, is largely a matter of conscious choice and discipline.” – Jim Collins