What Makes an Effective Team? You May Not Like the Answer!

2003.  

I was standing in front of the room with over 60 seminar participants' eyes on me.  I had just given my 45-minute presentation on Organization Strategy and Design and a participant asked me this,

"Given your expertise in designing organizations, what do you believe is the most effective organization structure?"

I stepped back and took a deep breath and dropped my head.

I knew the answer but wasn't sure I wanted to say it aloud.  

He was looking for a typical textbook answer like functional organization, product-centric, customer-centric structures.  Or maybe even the consultant's favorite answer to that type of question,

"It depends"

I looked up.  Made eye contact with as many people as I could and my eyes came back to the man standing midway back in the center aisle.

"Terrorist Cells"

There was an audible gasp.

I carefully expounded.  Think about YOUR team or organization.  How does your team effectiveness measure up using these criteria?

• Behaviors aligned with very simple yet powerful guiding principles
• Multi-year commitment to a single seemingly insurmountable goal
• Scarce resources consumed over a long period of time 
• Little to no supervision, spanning years
• Passion for the mission that overcomes extreme adversity
• Belief in the mission that empowers team members to endure extreme personal sacrifice

In summary

• Laser Focused Guiding Principles
• Persistence and Endurance
• Low Maintenance / Low Cost
• Autonomy with Unity
• Extreme Passion
• Team Cohesion
• Personal Sacrifice for Team and Mission

To avoid getting run out of the building, I quickly proposed we build PEACE CELLS in our organizations and communities.  Tight-knit units with common beliefs.  Let's adapt and change the world for GOOD!  

In our current world of self-quarantine and social distancing, I'm heartened to see these types of structures emerging close to home.  

I live on a cul-de-sac (dead end street).  The curve at the end of the street is FULL of kids.  All in the same age range of 3-12.  Summer time.  How do you keep these kids indoors?  How do you keep them 6 feet apart?  

The parents in the neighborhood made a pact.  They agreed that our cul-de-sac would remain a closed system as much as possible.  For example, if someone wants to hire a babysitter, they discuss their babysitter plan with the neighbors.  They're keeping their kids safe and happy.  

Look, you may agree or disagree with quarantining, masks and social distancing.  That's not the point.

The point is that our neighborhood addressed a problem by talking it out.  Engaging.  They voiced their opinions.  Problem solved and are creating a thriving community.  

By the way, I LOVE hearing kids laughing and playing on the street.

Last month, when my 60^th birthday came around, 15 neighbors came into our front yard and sang happy birthday – respectfully socially distanced.  (We're not IN the community agreement since I'm a high-risk person with COPD).  My birthday serenade would not have happened in a 'normal' year.  

I feel included, not separated.  

Our cul-de-sac is stronger and more cohesive than ever.

In a world that is more connected than EVER before in human history, why are we feeling so lonely and depressed?

I propose we level up our trust.  Let's rely on our neighbors.  Let's provide support and love without expecting to receive anything in return.

Whom can you trust?

My challenge for you this week is to search and engage at least 5 people who can make you smile.

That should be a good start!