Defining Team Identity with Rana DeBoer

Rana DeBoer serves up a thoughtful, action-packed guide to one of the most underrated drivers of team success: team identity.

Think it’s just about teamwork? Think again. Rana breaks down why team identity—the heart and soul of how people connect and collaborate—matters more than ever in today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world.

Learn how to align your team’s purpose with your company’s mission (because no, it’s not as obvious as you think), define character values that actually stick, and build a shared sense of belonging that goes beyond just hitting targets.

Unlocking Team Identity: A Key to Thriving Leadership

Building a cohesive team identity is essential for creating high-performing teams. Team identity goes beyond simple teamwork or task assignments—it's about creating a shared sense of belonging and purpose that energizes individuals and drives collective success. When this connection is actively cultivated, it benefits not just individual performance, but the overall business and even the wider community.

Creating a strong team identity does more than just reduce workplace conflict; it promotes accountability, collaboration, and a culture where team members feel supported and motivated. A strong bond within a team helps individuals prioritize the team’s goals over personal agendas, encouraging a mindset similar to servant leadership.

Four Key Actions to Build Team Identity

To develop this shared sense of purpose, there are four key actions that leaders can take:

1. Purpose Alignment Team identity begins by connecting the team’s work to the broader mission of the organization. This involves more than just understanding tasks; it requires discussions about who is positively affected by the work we do. When team members can see the direct impact of their efforts, they are more likely to feel motivated and engaged in their roles. Regular conversations that reinforce this connection help create a deeper sense of significance and belonging.
2. Character Values Defining team values is critical to establishing identity. Teams benefit from focusing on both performance values—such as discipline, resilience, and commitment—and relational values, including trust, empathy, and respect. These values shape the team’s culture, influencing how members behave and interact with one another. By embedding these principles into everyday work, leaders create an environment where “people like us do things like this.”
3. Focus on Goals Clear goals provide direction and purpose for the team. Leaders should ensure that team members understand how their individual roles contribute to the larger organizational objectives. Regularly revisiting these goals, celebrating milestones, and encouraging team-wide discussions about progress deepen the team’s investment in collective success.
4. Communication Habits Effective communication is key to strong collaboration. Establishing clear norms around how and when to use communication tools like email, instant messaging, or platforms such as Slack and Teams can reduce misunderstandings and improve productivity. Periodically reviewing these communication habits ensures that they remain effective and serve the team’s evolving needs.

Taking Action

Building a strong team identity requires intention and effort, but the payoff is immense—enhanced collaboration, reduced conflict, and a stronger sense of shared purpose. Leaders who focus on aligning team purpose, defining core values, setting clear goals, and developing strong communication habits will see their teams thrive.

Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Start by reflecting on these four essential power questions with your team:

• Do you feel like this is a team you are part of?
• Do you feel a strong sense of loyalty to this team?
• Do you experience a sense of shared purpose?
• Do you experience real collaboration with this team?

Answering these questions provides invaluable insights into your team’s identity and sets the stage for further growth. To access more tools and tips for strengthening your leadership, check out the leader guide available on LinkedIn or visit voltstrategy.com/resources.

By focusing on these key elements, you’ll foster a team culture where everyone feels connected, valued, and empowered to succeed.

Listen to the Episode: Defining Team Identity with Rana DeBoer

Key Takeaways:

• Team Identity is Critical: It’s more than just teamwork; it’s about creating a deep sense of belonging and shared purpose.
• Purpose Alignment: Repeatedly communicate how your team’s work ties to the organization's mission to foster a sense of significance.
• Communication Habits: Establish clear norms and codify how your team communicates to ensure collaboration is smooth and effective.