Qualities of a Productive and Close Staff
Positive Atmosphere
Staff can quickly sense a relaxed, comfortable, informal atmosphere where they can engage in activity that holds their attention and interest and is energy producing.
My Staff: When we meet, are we comfortable and relaxed? What suggestions do they have for improving the mood?
Clear Purpose
Take time to clarify and come to agreement on group objectives. Personal contributions are clearly understood in light of the group’s goal. Commitment to the group’s purpose is each individual’s motivation.
My Staff: Do we have a clear understanding about what we are trying to accomplish? How might the group become more aware of how each individual’s contribution is necessary for success?
Constructive Communication
Every staff member contributes to the discussion. While there is a great deal of dialogue, it is focused on the work at hand. There is freedom to share ideas, even crazy ones, without fear of being shunned or ridiculed. Thoughts and observations build on one another. Criticism is never personal but helpful and frank, always being directed toward the obstacles that keep the group from achieving its goals.
My staff: Do we listen to each other? Are we affirming? Do we stay focused? How might I gain feedback from the group on the quality of our communication?
Helpful Conflict
Conflict is viewed as a genuine difference of opinion and is openly discussed, carefully evaluated, and resolved by the group. There is no attempt to neutralize conflict by ignoring it, minimizing it, or ganging up on the dissenter to force agreement. When disagreements persist, the group moves forward with accomplishing its purpose and goals and returns to address the matter another time.
My staff: How effective are we at resolving conflicts within our staff? Do we have an atmosphere that allows for open, frank discussion? Where does the staff feel they need training?
Participatory Decision Making
Take time to identify and examine all the issues with your team. Members openly share their support or concerns. Since most decisions are reached by consensus, the staff is in agreement and willing to support efforts to make its decisions effective. Decisions arrived at by the group are owned by all members of the group.
My staff: Do all staff members participate in decision making? Do I allow enough time for identifying and carefully weighing issues before decisions are made?
Monitor Team Dynamics
Staff members are aware of how well they work together. They understand what their goals are and how they will accomplish them. Members will take time to evaluate relationships and determine if strategies and methods used by the group are progressing toward goal completion. If a hindrance is encountered, the team has an open discussion that leads to a solution.
My staff: When was the last time we discussed how well we work together? What adjustments were made?
