Forget the kumbaya sessions and trust falls. Real teams, according to Katzenbach and Smith, are forged in the crucible of shared purpose and mutual accountability. Let’s break down what makes these teams tick.
A team isn’t just any group thrown together. It’s a small number of people with complementary skills committed to a common purpose, performance goals, and approach. They hold each other mutually accountable. The essence of a team is that common commitment. Without it, groups perform as individuals. With it, they become a powerhouse of collective performance.
Purpose is the heartbeat of a team. It’s not just about hitting targets but having a reason to strive. This purpose must be something team members can believe in – something that involves winning, being first, or revolutionizing. Teams build momentum and commitment by shaping this purpose together, although initial direction often comes from management. The best teams invest heavily in agreeing on a purpose that they own collectively and individually. This “purposing” activity continues throughout the team’s life.
But a noble purpose alone doesn’t cut it. Teams need specific performance goals to translate that purpose into reality. Goals like reducing reject rates or increasing scores are concrete steps toward the broader mission. These goals provide clear communication and constructive conflict within the team. They keep the team focused and motivated, driving them to achieve small wins that build commitment and overcome obstacles.
Consider the Burlington Northern team, which initially had no marketers despite facing a marketing challenge. They developed the necessary skills on the job, illustrating how teams can grow their capabilities to meet performance challenges. This development of skills and commitment to a common approach is crucial. Every member must do real work and contribute meaningfully. A team is not just a few people doing all the work while others spectate.
In the end, the mutual accountability and shared purpose create a social contract that binds the team together. It’s not about the boss holding you accountable but about holding each other accountable. That’s the kind of team Katzenbach and Smith champion – one that turns individual efforts into a collective triumph.
