Indicators of a High Performing Team
Much of our work involves teams. We work with both large and small organizations whose teams face similar challenges. Our goal when working with a team is to increase both individual and overall performance.
So what does a "high performing" team look like? There are many indicators, but here are our top five.
Low turn over
Nothing is more disruptive to a team than high turnover. It costs money, time, emotional energy, morale, and feels like you are on a treadmill, being busy but going nowhere. High performing teams have low turn over because they understand that intrinsic rewards often mean more to people than compensation.
According to the 2014 Boston Consulting Group's survey of The Most Important Workplace Attributes, Canadians ranked these as their top five attributes they want in the workplace.
- Good relationships with superiors
- Good work-life balance
- Good relationships with colleagues
- Appreciation for your work
- Company's financial stability
Attractive fixed salary came is as #8 in case you were wondering. Notice how important good relationships are in the workplace and especially on a team. Ignoring relational tensions is the quickest way to increase turnover.
Attract "A-Players"
Not unlike our days on the playground, people want to be on a winning team. A-players want to work with other A-players and are attracted to teams who have them. We often hear stories of the teams we work with being approached by members of others teams that want to join them. They see a high performing team in action and want to join in the fun.
Have a Game Plan
A high performing team knows where they are going, what their purpose is, and how they will get there. Each team member knows the position they are playing and what their contribution should be. They have a strategic plan, actionable goals, timelines and clear accountability for results. In short, they get the right things done by the right people.
Invest in their growth
Just as one invests in new equipment for greater productivity and growth, high performing teams do the same. They understand that building a great team doesn't just happen, it is intentional and requires action not just talk. Their investment of time, money, and being open to change is quickly recouped as they reap the benefits of increasing their team's capacity. Check out the power of the 7% Factor to learn more.
Maintain healthy habits
A high performing team knows that the key to their success is to prioritize the healthy habits that turned them into a successful team. Just as it is easier to lose 5lbs vs 50lbs, teams that incorporate regular healthy habits into their workday reap the long-term benefits. Commitment to a healthy organizational culture is ongoing not just a one-time event.
What other signs of a healthy team have you observed?