Much like oiled and refined clockwork, a successful organization consists of intricate moving parts; each responsible for satisfying specific aspects of the company’s overall wellbeing. That being said, the output of an organization should never rely on the shoulders of one individual, but rather on respective departments. It’s one of the oldest sayings in the book, but there truly is no “I” in team. If a department consisted of just one individual, it’s fair to assume that progress may be lacking in that particular section and will inevitably result in a failing system. How does your organization hold up in the standards of a team-centered organization? Below are some guidelines to help facilitate a collaborative work environment.
Divvy Up the Work Load
Let’s face it – some departments, by nature, are responsible for larger workloads than others. The volume and capacity at which one is required to operate requires the hands of many. Depending on the strengths and weaknesses of the employees in that field, try to distribute the work in a way that allows everyone to work as efficiently as possible, utilizing the strengths accordingly.
Isolated Teams
Often times, smaller teams can develop within a department and that is a fantastic way to handle large workloads. The downside to this however, is that it can sometimes create internal competition. With internal conflict, resentment and animosity can follow. This can be avoided by reminding the department as a whole that at the end of the day, they are working towards the same common goal. Spread unity!
Big Picture Goals
The vision of the company should always be the first and foremost goal set for your workforce. While the individual goals set ultimately cultivate a stronger department and thus a more efficient organization, everyone must be conscious of the overall vision that spans across the collective whole. If it is not already known, remind department heads to inform their teams of the interplay that occurs across departments. Your vision should be their vision.
Collective Effort
When a team works together to accomplish a common goal, the possibilities are limitless. Enforce a collaborative work environment across the entire company. No single person should be responsible for the success. Once your workforce has experienced firsthand the effects of a team-centered work environment, the comradery will rise, the output will be greater, and the company will continue to prosper. Capitalize on this and remember that a successful organization relies on the departments that drive it. Parts to a whole.