Teamwork Is Not A Group Project

See that picture? Both left and right are examples of successful execution: “Provide a quick, casual, refreshment that includes meat, cheese, fruit/vegetables, and a quick dessert.”

Which one would you like to represent your company?

The running joke is that classroom group projects—where high performers cover for failing ones, and mediocre performers are relieved to have low expectations—prepare everyone for workplace projects.

It’s funny because it’s accurate. It’s sad for the same reason. It’s painful because too many managers use the assumption as cover—betting the livelihoods of their staff and success of their companies on that principle because they lack the ability and experience to turn a group project into teamwork.

Group projects translate into the workplace like this:

1.     Everyone knows the goal.

2.     Everyone executes their role.

3.     Everyone delivers their components.

4.     Everyone meets the deadline.

The recipe for success, right?

Look at that picture again.

The difference lies in how the four parameters are practiced and managed.

1.     Everyone knows the goal… and the vision required to meet the consumer’s expectations.

2.     Everyone executes their role… by striving to ensure their teammates can also execute at the highest level.

3.     Everyone delivers their components… in coordination with teammates to ensure quality expectations are met or exceeded.

4.     Everyone meets the deadline… to present a cohesive and exceptional final result.

The conclusion?

Group projects involve siloed departments meandering toward a vision-less goal, competing against each other to be the one delivering the quickest and cheapest result.

Teamwork requires cooperation and shared responsibility to deliver the best collective outcome.

Group projects end with excuses and blame for missed opportunities.

Teamwork ends with shared understanding of what worked and what can be improved.

Group projects end with relief the job is finished.

Teamwork ends with celebration for a job well done, and excitement for the next challenge.

The baseline difference is in the planning of the endeavor, the professional maturity of the team members, and the experienced focus of the leadership.

Note: Opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views or opinions of my employer.

#leadership #success #teamculture #managementethics