Manager's Guide to Unlocking High Performing Team

Have you ever wondered what truly makes high-performing teams different from the rest? Many managers think the key to a high-performing team is hard skills, strategies, and well-organized workflows. However, recent research is challenging this idea, showing that the real secret to exceptional team performance is not just about the work—it’s significantly about the connections within the team.

Years ago, I led a team in a competitive FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) company. Despite having some of the brightest minds, our performance was just average. Frustrated, I changed my approach. Instead of focusing only on tasks and deadlines, I encouraged informal interactions, celebrated small wins, and created a culture of appreciation. The transformation was amazing. Productivity soared, not because of technical changes, but because team members felt more connected, valued, and understood.

This experience taught me a universal truth about team management. High-performing teams excel not just in their professional skills but in building deep, authentic connections among colleagues. This is a crucial insight for managers and aspiring leaders.

Simon Sinek, in his book "Leaders Eat Last," talks about the importance of creating a "Circle of Safety" within organizations. This idea aligns perfectly with fostering deep connections within teams. Sinek argues that when leaders create a safe environment where team members feel secure and valued, it leads to greater trust, cooperation, and innovation. In such environments, people are more likely to collaborate and take risks, knowing they have the support and trust of their team. This safety net is essential for high performance, as it encourages team members to share ideas and challenges openly, deepening the bonds of mutual trust and understanding.

Building a High-Performing Team: Key Strategies

So, how can you create this environment in your team? Here are some key strategies:

1. Frequent, Meaningful Communication: Encourage your team to communicate regularly, not just about work but also about personal interests, aspirations, and challenges. This builds trust and understanding. Do this in a relaxed and safe environment.
2. Strategic Meetings with a Human Touch: Meetings should be efficient but should also include moments for personal sharing and acknowledging individual and team accomplishments. Check how the team feels before the meeting, then check at the end.
3. Cultivate a Culture of Appreciation: Regularly express gratitude and recognize the contributions of each team member. Make this a norm within the team, encouraging everyone to appreciate each other’s efforts. Be genuine.
4. Foster Authenticity: Create an environment where team members can express themselves freely—their ideas, concerns, and even frustrations. Authenticity breeds creativity and commitment.
5. Invest in Relationship Building: Organize team-building activities, informal get-togethers, and encourage casual conversations. This helps in breaking down barriers and building strong interpersonal relationships.

The Impact of Connection on Performance

You might be thinking, "This all sounds great, but will it really make a difference in my team's performance?" The answer is a resounding YES. When team members feel connected, understood, and valued, their engagement and productivity increase significantly. This isn’t just feel-good talk; it’s a strategic approach to team management.

Balancing Connections with Goals

While fostering connections and building relationships are vital, they need to be balanced with clear goals, accountability, and professional development. The art of management lies in striking this balance.

As a manager or an aspiring leader, embrace this shift in thinking. Move beyond the conventional focus on tasks and targets and invest in building genuine, meaningful connections within your team. It’s not just about making the workplace more enjoyable; it’s about unlocking the full potential of your team.

Your role as a leader is not just to manage work but to create an environment where connections flourish, and in turn, performance soars. Start today and witness the transformation in your team's dynamics and outcomes.

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Based from 5 Things High-Performing Teams Do Differently by Ron Friedman