Get a grip

Teamwork has been defined as the process of working collaboratively with a group of people in order to achieve a goal. It is crucial for a business’ success that colleagues work well together, trying their best in all situations. To do this, it is necessary for employees, managers and workers, to use their individual skills despite any personal conflicts that might exist between individuals. If there is conflict, it must be handled through constructive feedback.
 

Imagine, for a moment, a football team in a huddle ready to call their next play. The quarterback gives the play: “Red Dog 42 Slant on 3. Break!
 

But before the team breaks the huddle, the wide receiver chimes in. “You haven’t thrown the ball to me the whole game. I think we should throw a bomb. I’ll be open.”

“But we’re on the five yard line,” the QB answers. “A bomb would put it in row 30 of the bleachers.”
 

“How about me,” comes the next comment. “I haven’t touched the ball yet.”
 

“You’re a 350 pound lineman. You’re not supposed to touch the ball.”
 

“Well who died and made you boss?” snaps the center.
 

“Yeah. Just because you make the big bucks doesn’t mean you should call all the plays,” says the lineman to which the rest of the players agree.
 

Just then the punter runs onto the field. “Hey guys,” he says, “we’re in last place. Why don’t we just call it quits for the day?”
 

And the ref throws a flag.
 

Whether in football or business, teamwork is essential. And central to teamwork is communication. When you’re on the field, it is too late to build the team; that has to be done day in and day out before the work really begins. That’s why it is important for every team to get a GRIP.
 

G - Goals

• Clarity about the main purpose of the team
• Agreement on the desired results
• Understanding of the main tasks
• Agreement on the standards and expectations
• Clarity of priorities and deadlines
• Understanding of boundaries

R - Roles

• Acceptance of a team leader
• Understand all members’ roles
• Individual responsibilities
• Shared responsibilities
• Clear boundaries
• Identify and fill gaps

I – Interpersonal relationships

• Relating with the other team members
• Trust
• Sensitivity and flexibility with each other
• Good communication
• Collaboration in problem solving
• Effective methods for dealing with conflict

P – Process

• Team processes
• How decisions are made
• How the team solves problems and resolves conflict
• Communication
• Work processes
• Procedures of Work flow

For twenty-five years Joe C. Fairchild was a public speaker, counselor, and “life-coach.” He has worked with individuals and both small and large groups. Currently semi-retired he is pursuing a life-long interest in writing. Read more of his blogs at CommunicationsJobsBlog.net.