How to Realign Your Team When Things Go Off Track: Effective Strategies for Leaders
As a leader, navigating through the highs and lows of team dynamics is an inevitable part of the journey. When everything is running smoothly, it feels like your team is perfectly in sync, with minimal friction and optimal performance. However, it’s not uncommon to encounter moments where things go awry—perhaps due to conflicts, decreased work quality, or simple misalignment. In these situations, it’s crucial to have strategies in place to get things back on track and realign your team with expectations. Here’s how you can effectively manage and resolve such issues.
1. Establish a Team Charter
A proactive approach to managing team dynamics starts with a well-defined team charter. A team charter outlines how your team will operate, including how conflicts will be handled and how decisions will be made. Developing this charter during the team formation phase is ideal, as it sets clear expectations for behavior and communication from the outset.
When issues arise, refer back to the charter to remind the team of the agreed-upon processes. For example, you might say, “I was reviewing our team charter and noticed that we agreed on handling conflicts this way. Let’s revisit that approach to address the current situation.” By doing so, you bring the team’s focus back to the agreed-upon norms, making it easier to resolve conflicts constructively.
2. Use the “Story I’m Telling Myself” Technique
Conflict and misalignment often stem from misunderstandings or personal narratives that individuals construct about situations. To address these issues, use the “story I’m telling myself” technique. This approach involves expressing your perspective and inviting others to share theirs.
Start by framing the conversation with, “The story I’m telling myself about what’s happening is…” This allows you to articulate your perspective without assigning blame. Invite your team members to share their stories and provide their viewpoints. This method creates a safe space for open dialogue and helps uncover the root causes of the issue.
3. Ask for Permission to Share Concerns
Creating an environment where team members feel safe to express concerns is essential. Before sharing your observations or concerns, ask for permission: “Is it okay if I share some of my concerns with you?” This approach demonstrates respect for your team’s perspectives and encourages a collaborative dialogue.
When team members feel that their input is valued, they are more likely to engage in problem-solving discussions and contribute to finding solutions. This technique fosters a sense of ownership and accountability, which is crucial for effective team alignment.
4. Practice Self-Awareness
As a leader, it’s vital to practice self-awareness. Sometimes, the issues perceived within the team may actually reflect personal frustrations or biases. Regularly assess whether your concerns are rooted in team dynamics or if they stem from your own experiences and emotions. Self-awareness helps prevent projecting personal frustrations onto the team and ensures that your leadership approach remains balanced and fair.
5. Maintain Consistent Communication
Effective communication is key to preventing and addressing issues within the team. Ensure that you are consistently communicating expectations, providing feedback, and being transparent about decisions. Regular check-ins and feedback sessions can help identify potential issues before they escalate, keeping the team aligned and focused on common goals.
Conclusion
Managing a team involves navigating both smooth and challenging periods. By establishing a team charter, using the “story I’m telling myself” technique, asking for permission to share concerns, practicing self-awareness, and maintaining consistent communication, you can effectively address and resolve issues when they arise. These strategies help realign your team with expectations and foster a collaborative and supportive work environment.