June Book of the Month - 5 Dysfunctions

This month: Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni. The author presents his theory on common team issues by relaying a “leadership fable”, a story about a fictional new CEO and her experience of leading an existing, poorly functioning team down the path to rebuilding itself into a powerful productive one. Woven into the story is his model of the 5 Dysfunctions, an explanation of each and how it plays out in a group. Especially valuable are his suggestions and exercises for overcoming each one.

A brief overview of the 5 Dysfunctions:
1. Absence of Trust – Trust lies at the heart of a functioning cohesive team. Team members must get comfortable with being vulnerable with each other – admitting their weaknesses and mistakes, asking for help.

2. Fear of Conflict – Productive conflict, at home and business, is required in order to grow. The purpose of healthy conflict, that of focusing only on concepts and ideas, is to produce the best possible solution in the shortest period of time.

3. Lack of Commitment – Great teams move forward with complete buy-in from every member, even when some have voted against the decision. They are aligned around a common objective and move forward without hesitation.

4. Avoidance of Accountability – This refers to the willingness of team members to call their peers on performance or behaviors that might hurt the team. The most effective and efficient means of maintaining high standards of performance is peer pressure.

5. Inattention to Results – The collective goals of the group and the unrelenting focus on specific objectives and clearly defined outcomes is required for any team judged on performance. They minimize individualistic behavior and avoid distractions.

Lencioni’s view is that, in this age of fast and ever-present change, “teamwork remains the one sustainable competitive advantage that has been largely untapped.” He goes on to say that while the impact of teamwork is difficult to measure and achieve, “its power cannot be denied”. The advantages of effective teamwork? When people set aside their own needs and come together for the good of the whole, what was thought impossible can be accomplished. They get more done in less time and with less cost. And ultimately, people find fulfillment in their work. A sense of belonging and connection gained from being part of an effective work team can far extend outside the walls of work.

We’ve all had the experience of working on teams of some sort. How many times did you come away feeling energized and excited about working together for some greater good? Like me, perhaps not as many times as you’d like. Here’s a great book with tools and suggestions to implement with your next team to make it a rewarding, effective experience.

Have a great week!

My employee training services include the facilitation of workshops for teams based on this book. If your organization would like to know more about creating powerful effective work teams, please let me know. Visit my website at www.LousbergUnlimited.com