Last week, I posed a question. “What are the elements of a high performing team?” Reader John D. posted a comment that got him a copy of Attitude by Mac Anderson. John suggested that the critical element is approaching problems with solutions rather than whining or complaining. It’s a noble idea, but few teams can pull it off.
As the Manager, you can promote this critical element by providing a structure in your meetings that not only promotes, but requires solutions. As the problem is discussed, stop the conversation and ask team members to write down one or two solutions. When you resume the conversation (one minute later) allow only one idea per person until you have made the entire round at the table.
This accomplishes two things:
1. It points everyone in the direction of a solution before the conversation has a chance to get derailed.
2. It communicates that it is the responsibility of every team member to contribute in the solving of a problem.
Congratulations again to John D. -TF
Tom,
Half the battle is to clearly define the issue. My experience is that the real issue is almost never what it initially appears to be. Isn’t there a danger in jumping to problem solving before the (real) problem is clearly established?