Over the last nine (9) years (yes nine years of TRIPLE III TIME messages) we have talked about Teams/Teaming and why they are important in our everyday worlds of work.  But to be honest I really didn’t understand nor take stock of the critical “building-block” advice that was often contained in each message.  Whether the value was with other staff members or partners in a product/service area, Teams/Teaming never lowers in professional value!

This week however we will look at Teams/Teaming from a special angle.  As people have discussed the structure of their Boards with me as part of consulting, we talk about the difference between being “ASSIGNED” to a Board versus someone who “WISHES” to join a Board.

Think about it.  Consider the commercials that show someone being picked for a team because they are cool and the best.  Or back in grade school when people were picked ahead of you because they were better at a certain sport/activity.  Are you thinking?  Would people pick you or your organization/business FIRST to be on their TEAM??

Before you answer that question, I think you need to first consider another set of TOP 10 questions:

1. Do you try to retain an “always progressive” professional stance?
2. Do you embrace a teaming priority to ensure everyone wins together with any project?
3. Does your group feel pride and proud of what they do…what they produce?
4. Does your organization retain a questionable “pick me-pick me” over-whelming communication style?
5. Does your agency portray an attitude of always being ready for the next challenge?
6. Do people feel safe coming to you for input?
7. Do leaders think of you/your group when they consider setting an innovative precedent?
8. Would people/organizations brag that they are Teams/Teaming with you/your organization?
9. Would someone want to join your Board based on your history?
10. Would someone want to experience “repeat-business” with you or your group?

Teams/Teaming By Assignment or By Wish is an interesting self-analysis activity.  Give it a try.