Chapter 6 - Communicating in teams

Question 1

What creates an effective team?

Answer 1

• optimum number of members (4-5)
• clear tasks & work assignments
• complementary skill sets so all work completed well
• empowerment by organization (teams work better when given most responsibility
• have SMART goals to avoid conflict
• have sufficient amount of time & resources
• have incentives for completion
• commitment to conflict resolution

Question 2

What should be considered for creating a good team?

Answer 2

• who works well together
• what are the skills/experience of members
• what about personalities (Myers-Briggs)
• have an inclusive environment to promote equality
• team members/roles associated (formal/informal)

Question 3

What is a formal role?

Answer 3

• task-oriented roles for project

- ex. leader, communications coordinator, researcher, writer, editor, minute taker

Question 4

What is an informal role?

Answer 4

• team support & positivity role (unwritten)

- ex. facilitator, cheerleader, idea generator, peacekeeper, team player, etc.

Question 5

What is a team contract?

Answer 5

• a set of rules/guidelines for optimal group function
• it reflects on personalities & work styles
• deals with operations and problem solving

Question 6

What format does a team contract have?

Answer 6

• work project/goals: details, mission statement & smart goals
• team profiles: brief descriptions of each member
• team roles/jobs: identify each person’s role & give a brief description of responsibilities
• deadlines: list who is responsible for what & when
• ground rules: behaviour & performance
• agreed upon consequences for poor behaviour
• contact info: to stay in touch

Question 7

What is a contingency plan?

Answer 7

• its a plan for everything that could go wrong

- ask questions about possible problems & discuss solutions

Question 8

What are the stages of team development?

Answer 8

1. forming: orientation/get to know each other
2. storming: work out details & take roles
3. norming: joins details together
4. performing: accomplishing objectives
5. adjourning: completion of project

Question 9

How should you manage team meetings?

Answer 9

• maintain communication & set schedules
• for conflict management, everyone is responsible for their actions so be aware/alert of you & others
• recognize & praise good work

Question 10

How should you wrap up a team?

Answer 10

Evaluate!

• individual and group SWOT analysis
• celebrate hardwork :)