8 qualities of a successful team
A thriving team typically has all or a combination of the following qualities:
Mutual respect
Team members who appreciate their colleagues' previous experience tend to be more empathetic and want to get the best out of everyone. If there are any disputes, they approach each situation with care and are highly skilled at conflict resolution. They know that team dynamics aren’t always perfect, what matters most to them is sharing their team’s success and giving credit where it’s due.
Diversity
The best teams include a range of people from different backgrounds with individual talents. Putting people with different experiences together encourages them to learn more about each other, so they develop a closer bond. When people feel connected, they tend to pay greater attention to their team members’ ideas, which increases collaboration. All of these factors create a safe space for your employees, where they can produce their best work.
![Employees enjoying a diverse team party]()
Patience
In high-pressure environments people often forget how to be patient — we’re all guilty of it, especially when a project has taken an unexpected turn. An effective team, however, understands that things don’t always run smoothly. They keep their cool despite having to make drastic changes. During these stressful periods, it’s important to put effort into maintaining effective communication, and always make the time to be clear, open, and honest.
An understanding of purpose
All good teams know what the purpose of their work is, and everyone has a clear understanding of their responsibilities within a project. Without a purpose, teams are left rudderless and may waste time working on tasks that don’t best match their skill set. Team structure and project specifications can change — and it’s perfectly normal when they do. However, you should always try to keep your teams updated as best as you can.
![A team leader considering how to discuss her team]()
Specialisation
When delegating, tasks make sure they’re completed by the people with the relevant experience. Examples include hiring a copywriter to oversee your comms, or employing a specific UX designer to build an app. Ideally, your team should consist of individuals who have unique skills and talents. Naturally, some of these skills may overlap but as time goes on you’ll have a better idea of who excels at what.
Supportive leadership
Every great team has a supportive leader at the helm. Effective team leaders actively listen to their colleague's concerns and give them what they need to develop. They’re also highly trusting and act swiftly with confidence. While their team’s success is important to them, they know it shouldn't come at a cost to wellbeing.
![A supportive team leader helping an employee with a task]()
Good organisation
High-performing teams prioritise jobs and value routine. It’s not unusual for them to block out time for deep work and other demanding tasks. While they’re not perfect and may leave some work to the last minute, important projects are given the time they need to be completed to a high standard. They’re also not shy and ask for help when they need it.
They have fun
A successful team knows when to take breaks and have fun. They understand that all work and no play harms productivity and can even increase the risk of burnout. A good team leader also makes an effort with their remote colleagues too.
People who don’t work in the office could miss out on fun team bonding games, which reduces engagement with your business. If you have a hybrid working model, virtual team-building activities are great for bringing in-office and remote colleagues together, which keeps your culture alive.
![Employees enjoying an outdoor team party]()
Share