Delight in Diversity

We have a bias to explore what we have in common with others. We tend to seek out those we can relate to. People who have similar life experiences, styles, interests and ways of thinking attract our attention. This is helpful and unifying but we miss something essential in the process.

High performing teams value diversity. They actually revel in difference. A strong team is a variety pack where all can share, contribute and express in their own unique way in service to a common purpose.

As we honor and appreciate our differences it is surprising what we can learn and how much fun we can have. Start by moving toward what repels you (with curiosity and respect) and notice what happens.

Teamwork is a Strategic Decision!

Patrick Lencioni has shifted from talking about team dysfunction to the strategic advantage of team work. This approach is more inviting and the strength of his position is one I share. He states, "Team work is not a virtue it is a choice. It is a strategic decision not a default."

Like anything of value, teaming takes work and (dare I say it) sacrifice. In sports it's a given. Millions of dollars are invested in cutting edge strategy, nutrition, exercise, assessment, psychology, coaching, recruiting, medicine and daily practice. In business we still throw groups of people together and say, "go win the game" neglecting to provide the vision, support, training and scoreboard necessary to sustain high performance. Why?

Do we really believe a team is greater than the sum of its parts? Are we overwhelmed by all the books on the topic? Are we tired of team building that generates smiles but not numbers? Do we expect to win without practice? Are we demotivated by outdated performance management systems? Do we believe collaboration takes more time? Do we expect our leaders to drive performance? Are we reliant on fear-based strategies that seem to work? Do we want ease at the expense of results?  Have we lost a common cause? Are we hypnotized by our never-ending to do list?

If you want the benefits of stellar team performance (innovation, higher profit margins, better customer loyalty, lower health care costs, happier employees) what are you willing to invest? How much time, energy, attention and money are you willing to give to cultivate it? Lencioni asserts "teamwork is the last competitive advantage in business." What do you think?

Here is a 1 minute video http://www.tablegroup.com/pat/?tab=pov (click on "Pat on Teamwork") to ponder.

Our Strategic Team Alignment Programs explore team myths, measure success and provide a roadmap to accelerate synergy. Yes it is possible!