In the movie Miracle, a ragtag group of individuals from rival schools transforms into a well-functioning team and the unlikely winners of the Olympic gold. During tryouts, many of the United States’ top hockey players made a show of their fancy skating skills. Still, Coach Herb Brooks had something more basic in mind. He knew this team wasn’t the most skilled or the most experienced, but he was determined they would be the most well-conditioned.
As our work teams continue to disperse to their home offices and fancy devices, it’s easy to lose focus. Still, the fundamental principles remain solid. While the methods will continue to change, an effective team is always built on effective communication. Another foundation of a team that feels cohesive–no matter how it’s structured–is taking care of people.
Whenever we get a little sideways or start to feel the distance growing between team members, divisions, and workers with various statuses, we can always come back to the tried and true basics and work on our communication as well as the human side of our business.
We’ve collected some resources for cohesively knitting teams with different structures.
Communication
Three Elements of Great Communication, According to Aristotle
Good Communication Goes Beyond Open Door Policies
New Study: How Communication Drives Performance
The Next Generation of Office Communication Tech
Taking Care of People/Teambuilding
The New Science of Building Great Teams
How to Respectfully Discuss Contentious Issues at Work
In a Hybrid World, Your Tech Defines Employee Experience
What is the Purpose of Your Purpose?
Managing a Polarized Workplace
Bottom Line
There’s no way to build an effective team without communicating well and taking care of your people. What are your tried and true principles/tactics you always come back to?
