A few weeks ago, we spend some time discussing personal values. Values are the priorities in your life; the things you believe are most important and the things upon which you would be unwilling to compromise. Personal values set the tone in your life. Culture is determined by the things you hold most dear. This is true in your own life as well as in the life of your team. Team culture is determined by team values. I work with a lot of teams. What I have noticed in working with teams is that each team has its own culture; no two groups are the same. Varying personality types and leadership styles create the diversity necessary for a healthy team to grow. But in the midst of such variation, a healthy team has to find common ground. A clearly defined set of values creates a culture that will unite a group of people regardless of personal differences. When everyone is committed to the same goals and values, work is better and relationships are stronger. Team values determine the culture and DNA of a team, without which the team would be unable to function. Although the values of each team will vary, I believe there are 7 values that are imperative for a healthy group dynamic.  

  1. Listening.

    One of the most important things you can do as a team is listen to one another. Do your best to refrain from interruptions or preconceived notions about what someone is going to say in a meeting. Listening acknowledges the value and worth of the other person and what they have to say.
 
  1. Strength of Character.

    When the goals are accomplished, the vision is realized, and the work is done, who will you be? All the success in the world is meaningless if you do not like yourself or the people standing next to you. Strength of character is necessary for trust and healthy relationships, so act with integrity and respect.
[bctt tweet="When the goals are accomplished, the vision is realized, and the work is done, who will you be?" username="dukematlock"]
  1. Collaboration.

    Healthy teams work together. Commit wholeheartedly to working as a unit to achieve your goals. Innovation thrives when people have the freedom to share ideas and work together.
 
  1. Taking Responsibility.

    Own your mistakes. Each team member’s willingness to take responsibility of hiccups along the way will determine the pace at which your team is able to bounce back. As a team, you should be committed to looking for solutions, regardless of who is responsible for the problem. Owning the ups and downs of the process will make it that much easier to find those solutions.
 
  1. Direct Communication.

    If an issue should arise, deal with it directly. Avoiding unhealthy conflict and drama on a team is paramount. Be careful to avoid gossip or resentment on your team by addressing issues directly and with respect. Guard your relationships with the same ferocity that you guard your work.
 
  1. Operating with the End in Mind.

    Every decision that is made should be approached with the mission and vision of your team in mind. The accomplishment of your goals is dependent on an unwavering commitment to the objective. When every member of the team is working toward the same goal, success is guaranteed.
 
  1. Continuous Learning.

    A healthy team is a growing team. The capacity of a team is only limited by the level of investment made in development. When continuous learning is a value, you create a culture of growth. It’s really hard to beat a team that is always getting better.
[bctt tweet="When continuous learning is a value, you create a culture of growth." username="dukematlock"] The culture of your team is determined by your team values. It is impossible for a team to experience true growth or success when operating in an unhealthy environment. Protect the culture of your team above all else; everything you do flows from the strength of your values. For more information on how to build a solid team culture, check out this article.   [jotform id=51954776646168]]]>

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