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3 Secrets To Leading Small Teams

3 Secrets To Leading Small Teams
by Catherine Iste

Whether we are running a department or an entire organization, leading small teams can have its own special challenges. Long-tenured staff have institutional knowledge and idiosyncrasies, newbies can have a hard time getting into sync with co-workers who finish each other's sentences, and everyone knows the quickest and best way to get on each other's nerves.

To avoid slipping into comfortable, less-productive roles, consider these three secrets to ensure continued success leading small teams.

Fair with favorites

In a small group, it is often more difficult to appear fair. The regular interaction between and among staff affords everyone more opportunities to form opinions on who is the favorite. While it is helpful to be clear about what actions and behaviors are encouraged versus those that are not, it is equally important to be measured in how any given employee is singled out.

For example, if the superstar exceeds yet another goal, praising her again at a mandatory lunch held in her honor can create animosity within the team and may leave the star feeling like she has a target on her back. Instead, consider direct, one-on-one conversations with individual employees (including the superstar) to provide feedback. This can help ensure the intended message reaches the appropriate ears.

Read full article on MultiBriefs.