Teams and Teamwork (2024) Flashcards
Team:
A small group of people with complementary skills, who work together to achieve a shared purpose and hold themselves mutually accountable for its accomplishment
Teamwork:
The process of people actively working together to accomplish common goals
Supervisor:
serving as the appointed head of a work unit
Network facilitator:
acts as catalyst or
mediator as needed
Participant:
serving as a helpful contributing member of the team.
External Coach:
is a mentor to help develop team members’ skills
Usefulness of Teams:
More resources for problem solving
Improved creativity and innovation
Improved quality of decision making
Greater commitments to tasks
Higher motivation through collective action
Better control and work discipline
More individual need satisfaction
Formal Teams:
Teams that are officially recognized and supported by the organization for specific purposes
May appear on the organization chart
A functional team is a formally designated work team with a manager or team leader
Teams often consist of members who take on different roles, such as:
Leader (organizes and motivates the group)
Thinker (generates ideas)
Doer (executes tasks)
Supporter (encourages and assists others)
Trait Theory
Some people are born with the qualities needed to be effective leaders.
- Behavioral Theory
Leadership is based on a leader’s ability to demonstrate the right skills and behaviors.
Transformational Theory
D. Leaders inspire and motivate followers toward change and personal growth.
Situational Theory
Leaders adjust their style depending on the needs of the situation and followers.
Servant Leadership:
The leader prioritizes serving others to help them grow and succeed.
Scenario 1:
A team is facing a crisis, and a leader needs to take charge immediately with clear, directive actions to meet the deadline.
Theory:
Reason:
Theory: Situational Theory
Reason: In a crisis, the leader needs to quickly assess the situation and take appropriate, directive action to lead the team toward meeting the deadline. Situational Theory is effective here because it allows the leader to adapt their style to the urgency and specific needs of the situation.
Scenario 2:
A school principal encourages teachers to collaborate and grow by offering mentorship programs, celebrating achievements, and supporting innovation.
Theory:
Reason:
Theory: Transformational Theory
Reason: The principal is creating an inspiring and supportive environment that fosters growth and collaboration, characteristics central to transformational leadership. This theory is suitable because it motivates teachers to reach their potential and contributes to continuous improvement.
Scenario 3:
A community organizer works to uplift marginalized groups by focusing on their needs and encouraging members to take leadership roles in projects.
Theory:
Reason:
Theory: Servant Leadership
Reason: The community organizer focuses on uplifting and empowering marginalized groups, prioritizing their needs and encouraging them to lead. This is a hallmark of servant leadership, where the leader’s primary goal is to serve and develop others.
- Drive
Definition: Drive is the ambition and perseverance leaders exhibit to achieve their goals. It reflects the energy, initiative, and commitment leaders demonstrate toward their objectives, inspiring others to contribute at high levels.
Example: Elon Musk exemplifies drive through his relentless pursuit of innovative goals with companies like SpaceX and Tesla. His drive has motivated teams to push boundaries in aerospace and automotive technology.
Photo Request: Image of a motivated leader working intensely with a team in a high-tech workspace, conveying energy and focus on innovation.
- Motivation
Definition: Motivation in leadership is the inner desire to achieve and inspire others. Leaders with strong motivation set ambitious goals, maintain high standards, and drive team members to stay committed.
Example: Mahatma Gandhi demonstrated motivation by staying dedicated to his vision of Indian independence through nonviolent resistance. His unwavering commitment inspired millions to join the movement.
Photo Request: Image of a leader inspiring a diverse crowd, symbolizing unity and shared purpose.
- Honesty & Integrity
Definition: Honesty and integrity refer to a leader’s adherence to moral and ethical principles. Such leaders are transparent, trustworthy, and consistent in their words and actions, building strong, reliable relationships.
Example: Nelson Mandela demonstrated integrity by standing firm in his beliefs and values despite decades of imprisonment. His honesty and ethical leadership inspired global respect and trust.
Photo Request: Image of a respected leader in a formal setting, surrounded by followers, conveying respect and reliability.
- Self-Confidence
Definition: Self-confidence in leadership is a firm belief in one’s abilities and judgments. Confident leaders project assurance and are better able to make decisions, even in uncertain or high-stakes situations.
Example: Oprah Winfrey’s self-confidence helped her overcome numerous obstacles to build a successful career. Her belief in her potential inspired others and transformed the media landscape.
Photo Request: Image of a confident leader speaking to an audience, demonstrating assurance and poise.
- Cognitive Ability
Definition: Cognitive ability refers to a leader’s intellectual capacity to solve problems, think strategically, and analyze complex information. Leaders with high cognitive ability quickly process information and develop effective solutions.
Example: Albert Einstein exhibited high cognitive ability, using his intellect to develop groundbreaking theories in physics that revolutionized science.
Photo Request: Image of a thoughtful leader working through complex data, showcasing problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Knowledge of the Business
Definition: Knowledge of the business means having a deep understanding of the industry and organizational operations. Leaders with this trait make informed decisions that align with the company’s strategic goals.
Example: Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors, exemplifies business knowledge, as her expertise has guided GM through major transformations in electric vehicle development.
Photo Request: Image of an industry leader in a corporate setting, interacting with products or technology relevant to the business.
- Emotional Stability
Definition: Emotional stability in leadership is the ability to remain calm and collected under pressure. Leaders with emotional stability handle stress well, make clear decisions, and maintain morale during challenging times.
Example: Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, demonstrated emotional stability by remaining composed and compassionate while leading her country through crises, including natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Photo Request: Image of a calm leader handling a stressful situation, surrounded by team members who are reassured by their presence.
Autocratic
Definition: A leader makes decisions independently with little input from others. Best when quick decisions are needed, such as in crisis or high-stakes situations where time is critical.
Democratic
Definition: A leader encourages group participation and decision-making from all team members. Effective when team input is valuable, such as when developing new ideas or solutions, and building commitment is important.
Laissez-faire
Definition: A hands-off approach where the leader provides minimal direction and allows team members to make decisions. Works well when team members are highly skilled, motivated, and require little supervision.
Collaborative
Definition: Most effective in environments that require problem-solving and innovation, where different perspectives are needed. A leader works closely with the team, ensuring strong teamwork and shared decision-making.
Charismatic
Definition: A leader uses their charm and appeal to inspire and motivate their followers. Best used when motivating a team to overcome challenges or during periods of change and uncertainty, to keep morale high.
