How can you maintain team cohesion during the adjourning stage?

2 Celebrate the team's success

The second step to maintain team cohesion during the adjourning stage is to celebrate the team's success and achievements. You can do this by organizing a team event, such as a party, a lunch, or a ceremony, where you can thank your team members, share stories and memories, and give awards or gifts. You can also create a team souvenir, such as a photo album, a video, or a newsletter, that captures the team's journey and highlights. By celebrating the team's success, you can boost your team's morale and satisfaction, and strengthen your team's bond.

3 Plan for the future

The third step to maintain team cohesion during the adjourning stage is to plan for the future and support your team members' career development. You can do this by providing career guidance and coaching, and helping your team members identify their strengths, interests, and goals. You can also connect your team members with other opportunities and networks, such as mentors, peers, or projects, that can help them grow and advance. You can also encourage your team members to stay in touch and maintain their relationships, either formally or informally. By planning for the future, you can help your team members feel confident and optimistic, and foster a sense of continuity and belonging.

5 Manage the emotions

The fifth step to maintain team cohesion during the adjourning stage is to manage the emotions that may arise during this stage, such as sadness, anxiety, or anger. You can do this by being empathetic and supportive of your team members, and acknowledging their feelings and needs. You can also provide emotional support and resources, such as counseling, coaching, or peer support, to help your team members cope and adjust. You can also model positive and constructive behaviors, such as expressing gratitude, optimism, and resilience, and avoiding blame, criticism, or denial. By managing the emotions, you can help your team members deal with the change and transition, and maintain their well-being and motivation.

6 Follow up and follow through

The sixth step to maintain team cohesion during the adjourning stage is to follow up and follow through on the team's tasks and commitments. You can do this by ensuring that the team's deliverables are completed and handed over, and that the team's responsibilities and obligations are fulfilled. You can also monitor and evaluate the team's results and impact, and report and communicate them to the relevant stakeholders. You can also check in with your team members, and provide ongoing support and feedback , as needed. By following up and follow through, you can ensure a smooth and successful closure of the team's project, and maintain your team's reputation and credibility.