Team Dynamics
Every member in a team is owed respect. What might be some behaviors that could be considered disrespectful?
Examples: Interrupting someone. Speaking in a rude or demeaning manner. Dismissive body language. Deleting someones work on a shared project.
What is the purpose of decision making as a team?
To gather a consensus, entertain divergent viewpoints, and making decisions/ plans of action as a unit.
True or False: Feedback is used to make other people better. Therefore, feedback is always a critique or criticism.
False. Though feedback can be constructed to deliver critiques or criticism, feedback can also be used for praise and to reinforce positive behavior.
How can communication styles cause a rift in the group dynamic? What should our teams be careful of as we approach our individual team projects.
Be careful in regard to informal messages. A quick message can come across as dismissive or rude. Use of emojis can also come across as informal or passive aggressive. Be sure to communicate clearly and kindly.
In order to have a constructive team decision making dynamic, should everyone be in unanimous agreement or majority vote?
How do you as a team member insure each decision is fair?
Depends. Fairness is relative to the group. And sometimes what is fair is unattainable. As a group, you simply do your best to make sure everyones vote is heard and valued equally.
When delivering bad news or a critique/ criticism to a team member be sure to be careful with your:
a. Tone
b. Word choice
c. Body language
Why might this be important?
A condescending/ demeaning tone can cause someone to feel attacked or bullied. Word choice can easily shift a tough conversation from bad to worse. Be careful with the words you chose and be mindful of how your teammate may receive your message. Negative body language can come across as intimidating, malicious, or disinterested.
Why is it important to understand your team members and their different perspectives?
By understanding the members of your team, you can tailor yourself to better align with them. Your differences can either strengthen and diversify your team or they can cause rifts and conflict.
How does accountability play into the team decision making process? Who is responsible for holding members accountable?
Accountability helps to reinforce expectations and protects the progress of the group. You are responsible for your own accountability, however a manager or team leader may also hold members accountable for their actions/ inactions.
The textbook discusses the idea of a feedback sandwich. What are the layers of the feedback sandwich?
1. Align with the individual. 2. Approach the topic. 3. Give the news. 4. Go back to alignment 5. Add flair