When you first set out to build a lean, mean productivity machine in the form of a team, start out on the right track. You have a great set of people, a great set of skills, and now they all have to work together. Easy, right?
It is far more efficient to start out on the right foot, than to try and make foundational corrections later on down the road. While not impossible, dealing with this in the future, in an already established team, almost always takes far more time to correct. In the beginning, an observant leader may even be able to identify potential “issues” right up front, and either prevent them from happening in the first place, or at least be better equipped to deal, and not be surprised later on. Take some quality time to get to know each other, and feel out each other’s strengths and weaknesses.
One good policy at the outset would be to immediately establish a set of shared team values in order to support each other. Here are just a few examples:
Open communication
Place a strong emphasis on honesty. Individuals need to know that they are kept in the know as much as possible, and that nothing is a secret. They should be confident that if they ask, they will always get a honest answer from any one of their team mates. They should know that they always have the ability to ask for, and to receive help when needed.
Frequent communication
The more the merrier. Always keep each other informed. No one should ever feel left out. Everyone should be able to answer to any of the actions taken by the team.
Respect
Everyone should know that they are a valued and respected member of the team. Their opinions and insights are important. We never want to discourage input – it can lead to not getting it in the future.
Accountability
We hold ourselves accountable and we hold each other accountable. It just works this way to keep us all going forward. Just remember, everyone has a bad hair day! Stay positive.
Forgiveness
Everyone makes mistakes – and it’s always okay, just take ownership, we’ll fix it, we’ll support you, and we’ll move on. Again, stay positive.
The establishment of trust is a very important, and a good set of shared support values are a good way to start out.