04
Jan
Six Characteristics of Elite Teams
Multiple studies indicate that only about ten percent of work teams function at an “elite” level. The Gallup organization has been studying teams for decades to try and determine the characteristics found in these rare, truly exceptional teams. According to Gallup, elite teams almost always possess the following traits:
- Engage in healthy debate: The most successful teams disagree. Sometimes they disagree often and passionately, and that is a good thing. According to Gallup, what differentiates elite teams from dysfunctional ones is that the team doesn’t fragment when members disagree. Instead, they gain strength from the debate.
- Keep the larger goal in mind: Gallup found that members of elite teams tend to have widely varying opinions, but they have something in common. They are able to put their personal agendas and egos aside and focus on what is in the best interest of their organization.
- Offer opportunities for development: Exceptionally talented people always want to be improving. They are intellectually curious and motivated by new challenges. According to Gallup, teams are at risk for talented members becoming disengaged or even leaving if they feel they aren’t developing.
- Have lives outside of work: Gallup discovered that members of elite teams work extremely hard, but they also consider their lives balanced. Specifically, they bring the same level of energy to their family and personal lives as they do to their work lives.
- Embrace diversity: Gallup found that teams with diverse educational and cultural backgrounds were more likely to achieve elite status. While gender and race differences are important, it is equally important for elite teams to be made up of individuals with different leadership, communication, and problem-solving styles.
- Attract more talent: Want to find an elite team? According to Gallup, look for the team that everyone wants to be on. Because elite teams have high-energy, successful cultures, they tend to be a magnet for other talented employees.
The above content is from Grant’s new book, Diagnosing Your Team: A Practical Guide to Understanding and Transforming Teams. Pre-order the book now.
By: Grant Thompson
Grant Thompson has been providing consulting services to clients throughout the United States for more than 25 years. Grant specializes in leadership development and has assessed, coached and trained hundreds of leaders in dozens of different industries. In addition, he consults extensively with organizations on morale issues, teamwork and business strategy.