Are you developing a team that is capable of going for Gold!

Since it's the week of the Olympics it seems only appropriate to talk about developing well performing teams. Great teams don't just happen....they are selected and/or developed. Once selected a team will require "work" before they start performing at their peak. When you bring a team of people together personality differences must be addressed and people need to understand what motivates the different members. People need to spend time connecting with each other on a personal level in order to really perform their best. Just think about it - how can I know what to expect or not to expect from my fellow team mate unless I understand their interests, their challenges and their aspirations. What are you doing as the coach or manager of your team of employees to ensure that they connect and understand each other so they can perform their absolute best? Take opportunities like staff meetings to go around the table and talk about something that employees like to do outside of work. Get to understand what motivates people outside of work and you will begin to understand what it will take to motivate them at work. Provide opportunities for your employees to socialize together and consider this productive time - they're getting to know each other which means they will work more effectively together. Go for the Gold - think about ways to allow your team to realize their full potential!