Page 190 - How America's Best Places to Work Inspire Extra Effort in Extraordinary Times

The Power of “We” to Magnify Engagement C177

: A CHECKLIST OF TEAMWORK BEST PRACTICES FOR
ENGAGING EMPLOYEES IN ALL TIMES

Though team structures may differ and priorities may vary with busi-
ness objectives and market conditions, below are some of the practices
used by successful employers. Check those that you believe your or-
ganization is currently doing well, and place an X next to those you
believe you should be doing or doing significantly better:

— Evaluate all teams on the criteria for team effectiveness described earlier
in this chapter. Implement corrective measures as appropriate.
— Conduct team-building training and facilitate team-building sessions.
— Set company ground rules for communicating directly and openly in-
stead of avoiding tough conversations and communicating in indirect
ways.
— Limit team and unit size where possible to maintain cohesion and com-
munication.

— Adopt business 2.0 technology that enables, supports, and facilitates col-
laboration.
— Make it clear that gossip and behavior that undermines teamwork will
not be tolerated.
— Adjust the balance between individual and team rewards and recogni-
tion.
— Look for appropriate ways to have more fun and morale-building team
activities.

— Plan and organize company-sponsored events (volunteer projects, etc.)
that encourage social connectedness.
— Review and refine screening techniques used to select team leaders.
— Allow employees to participate in the interviewing and selection of new
hires.
— Celebrate company successes and milestones when reached.
— Retool your new-hire on-boarding process to bring new team members
to the level of contributing team member sooner.

— Reorganize functions and assign goals so as to force cross-functional
collaboration.