Team dysfunction and what not to do about it.
Occasionally we are asked by a client for team building with a group only to find that it is an attempt at pseudo fun. We find that where dysfunction is present and a team building event is sought to build morale, it often works counter to the desired outcome, and actually creates more resistance and mistrust than at the outset.
Our recommendation is that if it ain't fixed, don't risk breaking your team dynamics further with an attempt to mask the issues. Instead, tackle them head on.
--
Dysfunction, when present in a team, shows up in subtle and uncomfortable ways.
Clues to dysfunction in teams are the presence of undiscussables, avoidance of each other, lack of energy and zing, or power plays.
The root causes are complex, however typically it is borne about by a lack of trust amongst team members, a history of politics or unresolved issues, or a particularly difficult personality amongst the group.
Whilst many people in a dysfunctional team want the same things, such as energy, fun, trust and openness in their work environment, it is often not enough for individual team members to feign these attributes without first addressing and digging out the root causes. Clearly this is difficult ground to tread, and requires the skill of an experienced facilitator and the commitment of a deep sea diver.
However, if time and money is to be spent on doing something to lift the team to a new level of vibrance and performance, our experience shows that an attempt at first building team morale is often a wasted investment.
Initially, the best team building a team can take on is an honest and open conversation within a well structured and trustworthy environment. An external facilitator who is skilled in group process and team dynamics, and who has the trust of a team leader, can help the group find pathways to open communication and common ground. Beyond the initial stepping stones, team coaching can leave the group with skills and tools they can continue to apply within the group dynamics for sustainable team growth.
Once an initial intervention has lead to a lift in group members awareness, and commitment to the team has increased, then it may be approrpriate to build on this base with a fun team building event. At this stage, that just may be the catalyst for a new level of energy and rapport amongst team members.
Teams who have evolved through a dysfunctional phase can become very strong, and high performing, so whilst it is a difficult journey to take on, it can be a very rewarding and personally engaging one too.
But be warned, if your team ain't fixed, don't break it with a glib attempt at masking the issues through morale building. Face the issue and help to make a difference.
by
David Pointon
DaPo
--
DaPo delivers skilled facilitation for dysfunctional teams through it's FAST Meetings Co.
|