What makes a team spectacular?

Most teams find a point where they function, achieve results, and collaborate nicely.  This is what I call a “correct” team.  But only a few go beyond this level to become a “spectacular” team, capable of building something bigger transcending normal results, prompting other teams’ admiration, and inspiring the organization below them. 

Not so long ago, I’ve been part of one spectacular team.  Although that team has departed in different directions in the summer of 2018, we still share a whatsapp® group called “The Best Team Ever” and we stay very active in connecting, visiting each other when we travel, sharing our news and life stories, and celebrating the fortune of having been part of that team.  As you can notice we have transcended the purpose for which the team was conformed.

What makes a team spectacular?

Creating a spectacular team goes beyond just assembling a group of diverse talented individuals with clear goals and shared vision. The following elements must also exist:

•A culture of mutual respect and trust among team members. All human relationships are based on trust, and its absence makes relationships vulnerable.

•Certain level of intimacy fosters trust among team members, allowing them to feel safe to express their ideas, take risks, and admit mistakes without fear of judgment. Psychological safety is crucial for creativity, innovation, and effective problem-solving.

•Willingness to collaborate and share knowledge freely, building on each others’ strengths.

•High levels of commitment to team goals and success, above individual goals and success..

•Personal accountability and responsibility for individual and team performance.

•A positive, inclusive, and supportive team culture that celebrates successes and recognizes individual and team achievements.

As you can picture, we could have a team of stars and yet these elements above may not be present. While individual talent is an important component, a spectacular team is built on a foundation of trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence, where each member feels valued, understood, and motivated to contribute their best.