In this Map you will learn the 5 Dysfunctions of a Team, how they occur and what to do about them once they have happened. We have all worked in teams that just don’t gel. Either it is from lack of motivation, lack of connection or lack of direction. Regardless of the reason it is nearly always a lack of something. A fundamental reason for underperforming teams according to Patrick Lencioni is that it stems from a lack of trust. Trust is the bedrock of any team. Teamwork is built on trust. Trust happens when we can be honest about our mistakes and weaknesses. Trust has to come from the top down – when the leader is vulnerable and admits their mistakes others feel confident in being honest about their own. This will lead to more open and honest conversations and ultimately better work being done. The 5 dysfunctions according to the author are:
Absence of trust
Trust matters, it is the foundation of all team success. You build it by setting standards for the whole team and then leading by example. You must protect your team to build trust.
Fear of conflict
Be aware of artificial harmony, meaning a team does not meet expectations due to lack of real cohesion. Individuals are fearful to push back on what they believe to be the consensus.
Lack of commitment
Decisions are made but team members will not really get on board. It can be a result of trust issues. No one wants to push back. They go back to their own teams with a warped version of what was agreed.
Avoidance of accountability. Low standards
Team members do not hold each other accountable because there is a concern about how the feedback or criticism will be taken. Without the foundation of trust people will not bother offering feedback that might be misconstrued.
Inattention to results
Every team needs to be results focused. Without everyone moving towards the same objective, individuals get demotivated and distracted. Your job as a leader is to provide clarity about where the team is headed and why.