Building cohesive teams at work is much more involved then company trips or visualization activities. To build a team, it all starts with you their leader. You must be committed to a working environment of honesty and encouragement. You must be willing to view your employees as your number one company asset. But the proof is not in written policies or posters on the wall. The proof is in your actions.

With 35 years of marriage to the same woman, I know a little about commitment and encouragement. It’s not easy, nor convenient, but it has been worth the effort. Building a company team will also not be easy. But the end result can produce a powerful company, in which the employees work together for the betterment of all.

Like most teams, the participants will have varied skill levels. Your job, much like a coach of an athletic team, is to help each team member grow to their full potential. Encouraging your employees is much like fertilizing a garden. It adds nutrients to assist growth. Explaining your plans for each employee will indicate their acceptance into the team.

No one can grow unless they are stretched and challenged. A good manager will create opportunities for employees to grow without risking damage to the company. I do not believe it is unreasonable to ask your employees to do homework off the clock. Just like taking a class, potential leaders should be willing to describe how they would handle certain situations during after hours. Explain that these exercises are for their personal betterment and growth. Do not require participation. This can lead to potential legal problems. Leaders will want to do more.

Ken Bear Cole

A Second Look Business Consulting LLC