The answer is more than just skills or processes. It is something more profound. Here are the core principles that transform a group into a formidable team.

1️⃣ ‘Why’ Over ‘What’
Strong teams are driven by purpose, not just goals. Shifting our focus from what we were doing to why we were doing it leads to a more engaged and passionate team.
Result: Better Outcome.

2️⃣ Autonomy and Sync
Effective teams find their cadence in autonomy for creativity and synchronization for alignment. Balance is essential—too much autonomy leads to chaos, while too little stifles innovation.
Result: Self-Driven, High-Performing Unit

3️⃣ The Leadership Shadow
A leader’s behaviour, both in success and adversity, sets the tone for the team’s culture. Showing vulnerability and resilience profoundly influences the team’s dynamics.
Result: Cohesive Team Culture

❓ How do we develop these principles for building strong teams?

✴ ‘Why’ Over ‘What’

• Workshops where team members can contribute to defining the team’s objectives.
• This participatory process ensures that everyone understands and connects with the underlying purpose of their work.
• Simon Sinek argues that teams driven by a clear purpose are more inspired and effective.

✴ Autonomy and Sync

• Empower team members to make decisions. Ensure to empower but with accountability. Balance is the key.
• Regular check-ins and alignment meetings can help maintain this balance.
• Google’s approach to employee autonomy and accountability for results has led to the development of innovative products.

✴ The Leadership Shadow

• Leaders must be aware of their influence and intentionally model the behaviours and attitudes.
• This involves being transparent, showing vulnerability, and practising what they preach.
• Robert Goffee and Gareth Jones in “Why Should Anyone Be Led by You?” say that influential leaders are authentic and aware of their impact on their team’s culture and morale.

“The ratio of We’s to I’s is the best indicator of the development of a team.” -Lewis B Ergen.

How have you seen these in action in your own experiences? Do share a story where one of these elements played a vital role in a team’s success.

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