Game Plan: Build a Winning Team

Most people can appreciate (even if you’re not a big basketball fan) the team spirit we see on display during March Madness. It’s clear those that make it to the Elite 8 and then onto the Final Four know what it means to build and be ‘reppin for a winning team. They work hard, they look out for one another and they are deeply committed and passionate about reaching their ultimate goal.

In the workplace, teamwork and collaboration are essential. Here’s a game plan to build a winning team in your company.

Seek Diversity

You wouldn’t want to coach a team of all point guards would you? How about a team of players who were all recruited from the same high school? If you come across an incredible player who happens to be from a different high school, you’ll have a hard time convincing them to join your team as they may see themselves as an outsider. Focus on building a team with diverse skill sets, training, and background. This will help you attract top talent and ensure you fill all positions with players that have the right skills.

Value Hard Work and Training

Hard work and practice will help individuals and teams hone their skills, highlight their strengths and recognize their weaknesses. Learning new skills and using those skills often is the only way to get better and become great.

Build Chemistry

Teammates that respect each other, work best together. Create opportunities for peers to bond and get to know each other and learn to trust each other so they can work effectively towards common goals.

Pass the Ball

Make sure team members have the opportunity to be heard and contribute to ideas in the office. This might mean allowing different players to run meetings, take on leadership roles, or even as simple as asking for feedback about new processes.

Communicate

Make sure everyone on the team knows what’s going on. Communicate changes, feedback, issues, and show appreciation and give praise in a timely fashion to keep everyone motivated and on the same page.

You can’t make it to the Final Four on your own. When you focus on building and nurturing a solid team and work hard together — you get the W!