1 Fundamentals of Team Building: Challenges and Rewards

Many studies show professionals benefit from working cooperatively. However, rarely published in literature are guidelines to help team builders effectively develop teams in the organization. There are a lot of how-to and team-building activities books, but not many discussing the fundamentals of team building. In my consulting experience I always make sure to explain to our clients how to create a positive learning experience by explaining team dynamics, and by using team contracts and team-building activities. We also share templates for evaluating team projects. I believe any team leader can benefit from such strategy.

Team builders should view themselves not only as professionals and subject matter experts in their particular fields, but also as educators. As such, their job is to prepare professionals for excellence with the task at hand, collaboration among their peers, and business success. These varied professional paths require that team members have training in communication and interpersonal skills, team planning, team decision-making processes, and leadership skills. Many organizations have a slew of courses available and promoted by human resources (Motorola has its own university) courses built into their curriculum to help their people develop communication skills, which is key in any successful team interaction. However, based on my 19 years of experience in this area, professional training in understanding team planning, decision making, and team dynamics is rudimentary compared to the explicit business (making money!) instruction professionals receive throughout their academic formation.