November 2003

from CoachNet

"A team is not just a group of people assigned to one leader, manager or department. A team is two or more people moving along a path of interaction toward a common goal," writes Myron Rush in "The New Leader." (QuickFind BK2224)

Compatibility over the long haul is essential for a productive team. Each team will be unique in its make-up and purpose, but developing the following characteristics will lead to productive, enduring teams: 

SHARED VISION AND GOALS:
Ownership of ministry through shared vision and goals gives the team a unified direction. Each member of the team needs to embrace the overall objectives. The burden of leadership and desire to see goals accomplished needs to be shared with the team-- in many cases, burnout may be the result of carrying too much of the load alone.

COMMON VALUES AND PHILOSOPHY OF MINISTRY:
The team needs to operate with essentially the same mindset about doing ministry. There should be agreement on the bottom line issues that form the framework of the ministry philosophy.

COMPLEMENTARY STRENGTHS:
Not all team members should be alike. Complementary strengths should be demonstrated in the areas of spiritual gifts, working styles, and personality. 

MUTUAL RESPECT AND LOYALTY:
Bolstered by affirmation, respect and loyalty result in trust and a commitment to the team.

OPEN AND CONTRUCTIVE COMMUNICATION:
People on the team need to be willing to have their lives and ministries evaluated by each other and be held accountable. They also need to be willing to confront each other when necessary so differences can be resolved in a constructive manner. It's through
disagreement and discussion that people develop a clear picture of problems and situations. If everyone agrees too readily there may be something wrong-- either the whole picture is not being seen accurately or someone isn't being honest. 

FLEXIBLE AND ADAPTABLE:
Effective teams must have the ability to handle ambiguity and change. If innovation is valued, staff roles/duties will be re-evaluated and/or modified regularly in order to maximize effectiveness.

RELATIONAL AND PRODUCTIVE:
An effective team knows how to have fun together, while still getting the job done.

If you are a CoachNet member and would like more information on team building, including building a staff team, leading a team, and communicating well with a team, go to QuickFind CC3058 or click on: http://www.coachnet.org/compucoach/ccres.cfm?lev