“5 Things High-Performing Teams Do Differently,” by Ron Friedman

 

Want a High-Performing Team? Focus on Social Connections

In the run-up to the new year, we’re sharing some of our favorite tips from 2021.Every leader wants to solve the puzzle of what makes a high-performing team. One piece that’s often missing is the importance of social connections. If you're trying to supercharge your team, here are research-backed ways you can foster greater connectedness. Invest time in bonding over non-work topics. The best teams aren’t more effective because they work all the time. In fact, discussing things not related to work — sports, books, and family, for example — reveal shared interests, allowing people to connect in genuine ways, which yields closer friendships and better teamwork. Create a culture where expressing appreciation is the norm. Recognition is often a more powerful motivating force than monetary incentives. And an acknowledgement of good work shouldn’t just flow from the top down. Make it a norm for peers to express appreciation for one another as well. Put a premium on authenticity. It's important to create an environment where employees feel comfortable candidly expressing both positive and negative emotions — as well as complimenting and joking with teammates.

This tip is adapted from “5 Things High-Performing Teams Do Differently,” by Ron Friedman