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In the world of business, we have started using the word "team" to define any group of people working together. However, this broad usage often blurs the lines between true teams and mere working groups. It is critical for leaders to be able to distinguish the difference between the two, and properly diagnose which they are in, and which they are leading.
Why it matters: The difference between the two can significantly impact productivity, morale, and overall success.
You may be surprised to learn the signs that distinguish a true, cohesive team from a working group often show up clearly in your meetings.
Drawing inspiration from Patrick Lencioni's "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team," here's what to look for:
#1 - Healthy Tension vs. Artificial Harmony
A major sign of a functional team is the presence of healthy tension. This means team members feel comfortable engaging in passionate debates and voicing their opinions. In contrast, a working group often exhibits artificial harmony, where members avoid conflict, leading to stagnation and unresolved issues.
Look for this: In your next meeting, notice if people are challenging each other’s ideas respectfully or if they are merely nodding in agreement to avoid conflict. A real team isn't afraid of a little friction because it leads to better solutions.
#2 - Engaged Interaction vs. Self-centered Updates
True teams are characterized by interdependent work. Members are curious about each other's progress and provide mutual support to achieve a common goal. Working groups, however, tend to function in silos, with individuals focusing solely on their own tasks.
Look for this: Are your colleagues asking each other questions about their work? Are they genuinely interested in how they can assist one another? If conversations are centered around individual updates with little interaction, you're likely dealing with a working group.
#3 - Shared Goals vs. Individual or Departmental Goals
A cohesive team works towards a clear, shared goal. The success of one is the success of all. On the other hand, a working group might have fragmented goals, with each member or department focusing on their specific targets.
Look for this: Assess whether the discussions revolve around a unified objective or if they are segmented by individual or departmental achievements. A unified focus is a hallmark of a team.
#4 - Peer Accountability vs. Individual Accountability
Teams hold each other accountable. Peer accountability means that members call out discrepancies and support each other in staying aligned with the collective goal. In working groups, accountability is often hierarchical, with members relying on leaders to enforce discipline.
Look for this: Observe if team members feel empowered to address issues directly with each other, or if they default to escalating problems to their superiors. Peer accountability is a strong indicator of a team dynamic.
#5 - Unfiltered Debate and Commitment vs. Voting or Artificial Consensus
Effective teams engage in open debates and ensure every voice is heard before making decisions. This process fosters genuine commitment to the outcomes. Conversely, working groups may resort to voting, artificial consensus, or top-down decisions, which can lead to disengagement and lack of commitment.
Look for this: During decision-making, check if all opinions are considered and if there's a robust discussion. Also, see if everyone leaves the room committed to the decision, even if they initially disagreed. True commitment is a sign of a team.
#6 - Vulnerability and Support vs. Fear and Isolation
Team members should feel safe admitting when they don’t know something or need help. This vulnerability fosters trust and collaboration. Working groups, however, might have members who fear being judged or seen as incompetent if they ask for help.
Look for this: Pay attention to whether people are comfortable admitting mistakes or gaps in their knowledge. A supportive environment where vulnerability is met with assistance rather than judgment is indicative of a real team.
#7 - Flexibility vs. Rigidity
Finally, a true team is flexible and willing to adjust their agenda in meetings to address pressing issues as they arise. Working groups tend to stick rigidly to pre-set agendas, which can prevent important issues from being addressed in a timely manner.
Look for this: Notice if your meetings allow for dynamic discussions that prioritize current needs over a strict agenda. Flexibility is key to a responsive and effective team.
Conclusion: Determining whether your group is functioning as a team or just a working group is crucial for achieving peak performance. By paying attention to these indicators during your meetings, you can better understand your group's dynamics and take steps towards fostering a more collaborative and effective team environment. Remember, being a team isn’t just about working together—it’s about working together in a way that brings out the best in everyone involved.
If you are ready to turn a working group into a cohesive team, I would love to help. Contact me today at heather@peoplewarriors.com.
Written by Heather Italiano, Leadership Consultant and Founder of People Warriors
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