Teamwork and Doctors

Why are ineffectual teams so common?

I hear clients talk about their poorly performing teams and the stress this causes frequently. People assume that as adults, teamwork should come naturally, especially in the health service where everyone has the same goal. However, finding a role in your team, contributing positively and leading democratically do not come easily. More typically, the group dynamics are poor, there is conflict around decision-making, low levels of trust or the leadership is weak. This affects everything and it's really difficult to move the team to a better position. It can be more straightforward in clinical teams where there is a hierarchy and focus that enable people to understand the shared purpose. However put Doctors into managerial teams, research teams, projects teams, educational teams, peers groups etc, then the dynamics can be very different, much harder to navigate and can be constantly shifting. I think the reason that ineffectual teams are so common is because people assume teams can take care of themselves or it's someone else's responsibility. They can't and it isn't. It takes planning and action by all to make them work well.  Here are some tips to think about if you are considering starting a new team or reflecting on a poorly functioning team. Starting a new team:

1. Be clear about the purpose of the team and what its' objectives are.
2. Be clear about the roles that you expect people to play in the team.
3. Be clear about your shared values for being a part of this team.
4. Be clear about how you will work, meet and get things done.

Remember, managing peoples' expectations is crucial to getting off on the right foot. This is all common sense, but don't take it for granted. Make sure you don't make assumptions about other peoples' motivations or willingness to contribute. Remember that all groups typically will travel through Tuckman's stages of: Forming - Storming - Norming - Performing Developing an existing team:

1. Draw a map of the team to get a birds-eye view of all the members and their positions. What does this tell you?
2. In order to build trust, practice empathising with other members and get to know them a bit better.
3. Accept that conflict is a part of any team and develop a strategy to manage the conflict safely.
4. Acknowledge that everyone has an equal role to play and should be heard.

Remember, poorly functioning teams are usually driven by negative behaviour and behaviour is driven by feelings. Observe what emotions appear to be present, and why. Consider your own feelings and perhaps talk to other members about theirs. If you are able to pinpoint what emotions are contaminating your team, you stand a better chance of identifying the problem and doing something about it. It's uncomfortable to face these challenges, especially if no one else seems to want to take it on. But if you really want to be part of a better team, then someone has to make a start.

Team building does not happen on away days, it happens every day at work.

  You may find a recent article in 'Advances in psychiatric treatment' - Teamwork: the art of being a leader and team player useful.

Call 0754 0593476 or email me on alexishutson@yahoo.com