Building Resilient Teams in Times of Change

Today, organisations must face up to and navigate an increasing amount of change - driven by technological advances, economic shifts, aggressive global competitors and disruptive geo-political events.?

The impact of all of this change can be destabilising for people and teams - it can lead to decreased morale, lower productivity, and in some cases failure.?

It is therefore very important as a leader to build and foster resilient teams so that they can not only overcome these changes but can also thrive in the midst of them.

But what is a resilient team??Simply put, resilient teams are those that can adapt quickly to new situations, maintain high levels of performance under pressure, and emerge stronger after setbacks.?

How to build and foster resilient teams? This involves creating a supportive culture, ensuring continuous learning, and leading in a way that guides and empowers teams. In doing so, leaders can create a culture that not only withstands change but drives long-term success.

Techniques for Fostering Team Resilience

Psychological Safety

Psychological safety is the foundation of a resilient team. It refers to an environment where team members feel safe to express their ideas, take risks, and admit mistakes without fear of negative consequences. When psychological safety is present, individuals are more likely to share innovative ideas, ask for help when needed, and collaborate effectively. This openness and trust are crucial for resilience, as they enable teams to navigate challenges and recover from setbacks collectively. To create psychological safety, leaders can encourage open communication, actively listen to team members, and respond constructively to feedback. To reinforce this culture, It’s also essential to recognise and reward behaviours that contribute to a supportive and inclusive team culture.

Encouraging Diversity

Diversity in perspectives, skills, and experiences is another key driver of team resilience. Diverse teams bring a wider range of ideas and solutions to the table, which is particularly valuable when facing complex challenges. By incorporating different viewpoints, teams can better anticipate potential obstacles and develop more robust strategies. To promote diversity, organisations should implement inclusive hiring practices that prioritise a variety of backgrounds and experiences. Additionally, leaders should encourage diverse viewpoints in decision-making processes and create an environment where all voices are heard and valued.

Continuous Development and Learning

Continuous development and learning are essential for building and maintaining team resilience. In a rapidly changing environment, teams must be able to adapt quickly to new challenges. Ongoing training opportunities, mentorship programs, and knowledge-sharing sessions can help team members develop the skills they need to stay agile and responsive. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, organisations can ensure that their teams are always equipped to handle whatever comes their way, making resilience a core part of their organisational identity.

The Role of Leadership in Creating a Supportive Culture

Leadership’s Impact on Resilience

Leadership plays a pivotal role in setting the tone for resilience within a team. Leaders model resilience by demonstrating adaptability, maintaining composure under pressure, and showing commitment to overcoming challenges. This behaviour sets an example for team members, encouraging them to adopt a similar mindset. Transparent communication, empathy, and support from leaders are essential in building a resilient team culture. When leaders communicate openly about challenges and changes, they foster trust and reduce uncertainty, enabling teams to respond more effectively to adversity. Empathy from leaders helps team members feel valued and understood, which strengthens their emotional resilience and commitment to the organisation.

Empowering Teams

Empowering teams is another critical aspect of leadership in fostering resilience. Leaders can empower their teams by granting them autonomy in decision-making, which boosts confidence and encourages ownership of tasks. Encouraging collaboration among team members helps build strong, supportive relationships that are crucial in times of change. Recognising and celebrating team efforts further reinforces positive behaviours and resilience. Additionally, leaders must provide the necessary resources and support to help teams navigate challenges, whether through access to training, tools, or emotional support. By creating an environment where teams feel empowered and supported, leaders lay the foundation for enduring resilience and success.

Best Practices for Maintaining Team Resilience

Regular Team Assessments

Maintaining team resilience requires regular assessments to identify strengths and areas for improvement. Regularly evaluating team dynamics and resilience levels allows leaders to proactively address potential issues before they escalate. Tools such as surveys, one-on-one meetings, and team workshops can be effective in gathering feedback on team morale, communication effectiveness, and overall cohesion. These assessments should be done periodically, with a focus on how well the team is adapting to ongoing changes and whether any additional support is needed. By continuously monitoring the health of the team, leaders can ensure that resilience remains strong and that any emerging challenges are promptly addressed.

Adapting to Ongoing Change

As changes continue to occur within an organisation, it's essential to keep teams resilient by maintaining flexibility, aligning with organisational goals, and fostering a mindset of continuous improvement. Teams should be encouraged to stay adaptable, with the ability to pivot strategies as new challenges arise. Keeping a clear alignment with organisational goals ensures that everyone is working towards the same objectives, which strengthens team unity and purpose. Promoting a culture of continuous improvement, where learning and growth are prioritised, helps teams stay agile and prepared for future challenges.

Celebrating Resilience and Success

Recognising and celebrating resilience and team successes is crucial in reinforcing positive behaviours and building morale. Celebrations can take many forms, from formal recognition programs to informal acknowledgements during team meetings. These celebrations not only boost morale but also reinforce the behaviours that contribute to resilience, such as collaboration, innovation, and perseverance. By consistently acknowledging and rewarding resilience, leaders can create a positive feedback loop that encourages teams to continue striving for excellence in the face of change.

Conclusion

Building resilient teams is vital for navigating the complexities of organisational change. By fostering psychological safety, teams can openly share ideas and learn from mistakes without fear, creating a foundation of trust and collaboration. Encouraging diversity within teams strengthens resilience by bringing varied perspectives and solutions to challenges, while continuous development ensures that teams remain adaptable in a rapidly changing environment.?

Leadership plays a crucial role in this process, setting the tone for resilience through transparent communication, empathy, and support. Leaders who empower their teams, recognise their efforts, and provide the necessary resources help cultivate an environment where resilience thrives. Regular assessments, adaptability to ongoing change, and celebrating successes further reinforce resilience, enabling teams to not only withstand but also leverage change as an opportunity for growth. By integrating these practices, organisations can build resilient teams that are well-equipped to drive long-term success in the face of uncertainty.