Building Effective Teams

  • Clear & meaningful purpose (values, vision, mission)
    • Review vision established by board, short-term and long-term
    • Evaluate role of group within this larger vision
    • Review and rewrite mission statement as necessary
    • Imagine how teamwork can be inspirational and transformative (use Appreciative Inquiry process annually or more frequently)

  • Measurable goals (success to significance)
    • Near-term (1 year) & far-reaching (5 years)
    • Create annual calendar
    • Action plan with milestones
    • Assessment process

  • Defined roles & responsibilities (trust & delegation)
    • Defined scope of work at all levels
    • Interconnection with WUU Board, WUU “Staff”, and WUU Organizational Structure

  • Informed & transparent decision making process (empowerment)
    • Relevant data & shared point of view on the table
    • Consensus? Majority? Veto power?
    • Attention to which voices are heard and not heard
    • Attention to who is at the table and not at the table

  • Effective communication (listening & relationship)
    • Openness & candor; deep listening
    • Relevant & timely information shared
    • Confidentiality as appropriate

  • Healthy group norms (respect & vitality)
    • Accountability (deliver on commitments)
    • Initiative (step forward)
    • Empowerment (no “learned helplessness”)
    • Trust & positive regard
    • Resourceful & collaborative
    • High road resolution of disagreements
    • Recognition (“seeing” & gratitude)
    • Self-care and renewal
    • Engaging & effective meetings

  • Attention to succession planning (realizing potential)
    • Mentor & develop new leaders