Building a Dream Team

02. Jul, 2010 0 Comments

Getting the right people on the team is essential if anything of significance is going to be accomplished. It doesn’t take much to stymie the team and stall the progress. A degrading attitude, an ulterior motive, or a lack of willingness to help pull the load will lead to frustration and resentment.

The leader who builds the team is responsible for setting the tone by which the team operates. The attitude and demeanor of the leader will shape the attitude and demeanor of the team. If the leader displays a humble disposition and serves the team, members of the team will value humility. A leader who models passion for excellence will inspire excellence from the team.

The team leader is also responsible for ensuring the right people are brought onto the team. This is not easy. It takes a significant commitment and patience to find the right person that fits well. This is what I do to ensure the right person is hired for the team.

Go slow
It is better to wait for the right person who I know will be able to deliver. There have been times when the team has had to wait three months for the right person to learn we were hiring. We do not want the urgency of the need to drive who is hired.

Look for those smarter than me
I am going to say the obvious. No leader can know everything about everything but some leaders act as if they do. A solid team leader recognizes their limitations. They expand the capability of the team when collective wisdom is a higher value than the insight or intelligence of the team leader .

Know the strengths
Every candidate comes with a set of strengths. We ask every candidate to take the Strengths Finder assessment. The results are discussed with the candidate and consideration is given to how their strengths will compliment the team.

Hire exceptional talent
We refuse to hire an “OK” candidate due to a lack of exceptional candidates. We wait to hire exceptional talent. We are looking to hire 10’s every time a new position opens.

Clearly define team expectations
It is important to set the team tone from the very beginning. There are several team values that are important for a team to be effective

Speak openly and honestly
Hold opinions loosely
Attack the issue not the person with a differing opinion
Collaboration yields better results than individual pursuits
Personal success depends in-part on team success

It is very satisfying to serve with team where the individuals value the contributions of everyone. I know I am on a “Dream Team” when individual pursuit of excellence is for the benefit of others instead of personal recognition or enhanced position. I am grateful that I have the opportunity to lead and serve on a Dream Team.

How would you go about building a dream team?