Helping Your Team Define How it Will Work

As a leader, how do you help your team define how it will work?

Most leaders know to help their team define goals, but the conversation shouldn't stop there. You also need to agree on the mechanics of how the team will get the work done. Here are four things that need to be clear on every team:

• Roles and responsibilities. Every member needs to know their tasks and how their work will contribute to the overall goals.
• Work processes. You don't need a notebook full of procedures, but agree on processes to carry out the basics—such as decision-making or communicating.
• Rules of engagement. Establish a constructive team culture. Discuss the shared values, norms, and beliefs that will shape the daily give-and-take between team members.
• Performance metrics. How will you measure team progress? Define the measures for meeting the goals, and the consequences for not meeting them.

Adapted from "For Your Team's Success, Remember the How" by Linda Hill & Kent Lineback.

Workplace Politics - Engage or Avoid?

As a leader, do you avoid or engage in workplace politics?

Many leaders hate office politics....while others love them.  But avoiding them altogether may end up with you 'out of the loop'. If you've ever worked for a leader who lacked clout or credibility, you understand the risks. As a leader, you're responsible for building productive relationships throughout the workplace so you can influence and support people beyond your immediate sphere. But you can avoid "playing politics" while building the influence you need. Keep your efforts clearly focused on the ultimate good of the school/organization. Work with others for school/organizational advantage, not just your own. And always conduct yourself according to your personal values and beliefs, no matter what others do.


Adapted from "Stop Avoiding Office Politics" by Linda Hill & Kent Lineback.