If you want to know whether you are leading such a team, the telltale signs are clear:
- Teammates complain about one another and they are happy to see others fail
- They spend time trying to protect themselves instead of doing something productive
- They sabotage one another's efforts as they follow personal agendas
If this is the case, you have to intervene and change your dysfunctional team for the better. One way forward would be to follow these steps recommended by the businessknowhow.com website.
1. Take full responsibility for fixing the team
What did you do wrong that allowed this dynamic to emerge? Consider getting 360 degree feedback to understand how the team perceives you as their leader.
2. Check the facts
Use data and feedback to figure out what is going on. Try to recognise and understand the perspectives of your colleagues. Ask and be curious, listen without making any judgments. Also be open to feedback. The truth may be hard to bear, but seek it nevertheless. Your own view may be biased.
3. Make tough decisions
Set a new standard for how you want the team to work. The bar must be high and applied to all members of the team. Don’t overlook negative behaviour, no matter what the reasons for it might be. Make it clear that you are determined to follow through with your requirements. Clearly point out examples of who is or is not meeting the new standard.
4. Keep everyone committed
Involve the team and at meetings discuss challenges and ways to improve collaboration. If necessary, ask for the help of a facilitator: this might be a business partner from HR or a trusted colleague whom everyone regards as neutral.
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