Characteristics of High-Performance Teams

Despite the fact that main reason for creating teams was motivated by company success, high performance teams are rare. The concept of collective intelligence makes it obvious that “more brains are smarter than one”. Clearly, a single star team player won’t make the team highly effective in the long run. A strategic move that would provide immense value to the organization focuses on improving team quality. Let’s consider the main characteristics of team excellence.

Vision 

Shared purpose and goals unify a team. The collective team vision inspires members and helps them endure tough times. A shared philosophy and a good work ethic create a sustainable connection between team members. 

Diversity 

Similarities bring individuals together, but differences are the turbulent forces that drive creativity, critical thinking and overall progress. This sounds contradictory, but diversity is crucial for innovation, viewing from multiple perspectives, and thinking outside of the box. Technical, problem-solving and interpersonal skillsets contribute to team synergy.

Collaboration

Effective communication and engagement of members in discussions reveals that there is an open exchange of information and ideas. This fosters a collaborative and nurturing work environment. Thus, even in cases of conflict, it is expressed in a constructive manner, and this allows subsequent discovery and growth.

Leadership

Instead of imposing a authoritative demeanor, the leader serves as a coach and mentor. Active participation and contribution of all members is encouraged. Since the leader is aware that the team is a key asset of company success, the leaders helps facilitate the ideas of the group and collaboration between its members.

Flexibility

Modern teams that succeed consist of extremely agile individuals. Adaptability, the desire for continuous improvement and the ability to see change as an opportunity is characteristic of a high-performing team. They are not scared of a fast-paced working environment, but enjoy the thrill of it.

Learning

The cultivation of the growth mindset within teams is essential. Growth is related to a team’s approach to difficulties, and an innate curiosity to discover new knowledge. Team members are encouraged to learn from their experiences and mistakes in order to develop.

Trust 

Respect and trust within a team drives motivation. It is important for team members to feel valued and supported as this fuels their desire to perform. 

Efficiency 

High performing teams know how to gather, organize and evaluate information. This opens up the opportunity for creativity, innovation and risk-taking.

Accountability

There is a sense of responsibility, on a personal and group level, to consistently perform at a high level.

Enthusiasm

Performance-oriented teams are enthusiastic about all the aspects of a project and they are genuinely invested in seeing projects through to the end.

References & Further Reading

https://www.viamaven.com/blog/performance-driven-teams-characteristics

https://medium.com/@dbosmarketing/8-key-characteristics-of-a-high-performing-team-6c9f99649dc2

https://managementstudyguide.com/characteristics-of-high-performance-work-teams.htm