Characteristics of Successful Teams

Small Size, Diverse Makeup.

Size

• Teams can range from 2 to 25 members, however, teams that consist of 4 to 5 members work best
• When putting large teams together it can cause members to have trouble communicating with each other and disagreement on decisions to increase. 
• Large teams should only be used for sports teams or when a large number is required to get the job done. 

Diversity

• Teams should consist of both male and female
• The teams should differ in age, race, social background, training, and experience to allow for a larger creative response in team projects
• Diversity allows for the project to be viewed in multiple perspectives, and can be looked at beyond the view of one cultureAgreement on Purpose.

                 

 Agreement on Purpose.

• Have a general purpose that the whole team can agree on
• Goals that are specific that the team will work towards 

Agreement on Procedures. 

• Develop procedures to guide the group through the project
• Have goals with deadlines set for all team members
• Assign roles and tasks that require all team members to contribute equivalent work done, by a specified dates

Ability to Confront Conflict.

• Acknowledge conflict and address the problem openly 
• Direct confrontation is best when trying to resolve conflict, don't beat around the bush
• Face to face confrontation should be used over email or phone, so you can see members facial expressions and can tell by the tone of their voice on how they feel
• Confrontation should be task oriented, instead of person oriented
• All team members should speak whats on their mind
• Center strengths and weaknesses of the different positions and ideas, instead of personalities
• After hearing all sides team members must negotiate a fair settlement 

Use of Good Communication Techniques.

• Exchange information and contribute ideas in an informal environment 
• Speak clearly and concisely
• Encourage feedback
• Read body language
• Ask clarifying questions before responding 
• Constructive disagreement is encouraged

Ability to Collaborate Rather Than Complete.

• Focus on achieving team goals instead of wanting to receive individual recognition 
• Contribute ideas and feedback unselfishly 
• Monitor team progress (whats going right or wrong and what to do about it) 
• Celebrate individual and team accomplishments 

Acceptance of Ethical Responsibilities.

• Team members have specific responsibilities to each other 
• Teams have a responsibility to represent the organizations view and respect its privileged information
• Don't discuss sensitive information with outsiders without permission  
• Avoid advocating actions that would endanger members of society

Shared Leadership. 

• No formal leader
• Leadership rotates to those who have the expertise in each phase of the project
• Democratic approach 
• Democratic approach boost morale, creates fewer hurt feelings and less resentment

** Guffey, M. E., Rhodes, K.,& Rogin, P. (2011). Business Communication process and product (6th ed.). Toronto, ON: Nelson Education Ltd. Pages 48 -50