Team Genius

Humans can achieve great things when they work together. So, how do you build a team that thrives?

1. Agility Defines Success in Changing Times

As technology and markets evolve rapidly, the ability to adapt quickly can mean survival or failure for businesses. Maneuverability, or the skill to pivot and adjust course, is essential. Apple provides an excellent example of this mindset. In the early 2000s, the company's future was shaky. Yet within a decade, it became one of the most valuable companies in history, introducing groundbreaking products like the iPod, iPhone, and the Apple Store. This cultural embrace of risk-taking and agility ensured the company stayed ahead.

Examples

• Apple employees were encouraged to approach even Steve Jobs with bold, innovative designs.
• The iTunes platform revolutionized music consumption at a time when physical CDs were declining.
• Apple's investment in retail with Apple Stores was initially unconventional but proved wildly successful.

2. Humans are Designed to Collaborate

From building the Egyptian pyramids to modern tech projects, teamwork has always been our strength. Research reveals that our ability to cooperate has been instrumental in human evolution. Even on a biological level, genuine social connections enhance our immune system. Cognitive studies underline this further, illustrating that while other species like monkeys often work individually, human children instinctively form teams to solve problems together.

Examples

• The construction of the pyramids relied on 10,000 workers across a decade.
• Open-source platforms like Mozilla Firefox are built collectively by global contributors.
• Wikipedia, created through collaborative effort, is one of the most visited websites on the internet.

3. Diversity Makes Teams Stronger

Great teams embrace diverse perspectives, skillsets, and cultures. When individuals with differing problem-solving methods come together, innovative solutions emerge. Jerry Hirshberg at Nissan championed this idea by creating teams with varied skills to ensure extraordinary designs. Different cultural thinking also enhances teamwork. For instance, Japanese individuals often take a holistic approach, whereas Americans lean analytical. Together, these styles produce well-rounded strategies.

Examples

• Nissan’s design successes stem from combining big-picture thinkers with detail-oriented members.
• A study comparing how Japanese and American participants analyzed underwater images highlighted contrasting thinking styles.
• The Musketeers, though different from one another, thrived by merging their unique strengths.

4. Partnerships Drive Ambitions

History brims with iconic partnerships that achieved the extraordinary. Whether it’s Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak's complementary genius or Howard Schultz and Howard Behar's leadership synergy at Starbucks, partnerships help businesses overcome challenges. The Starbucks example shows how a partnership addressing employee morale and customer service steered the company toward international success.

Examples

• Steve Jobs led Apple with visionary ideas, while Steve Wozniak’s technical prowess brought them to life.
• Bill Gates and Paul Allen built Microsoft together, challenging each other to be better.
• Starbucks founders improved employee relations to raise customer service standards.

5. Trios Can Multiply Ideas

While trios are less common than pairs, they often bring extraordinary balance and creativity when maintained. For instance, the invention of the transistor was a result of a two-plus-one trio, where two physicists, Walter Brattain and John Bardeen, teamed up with boss William Shockley as their project manager. Trios also work when one person synthesizes efforts between two individuals, ensuring cohesive teamwork.

Examples

• The transistor invention team at Bell Labs shifted the trajectory of technology.
• Intel’s Federico Faggin coordinated two team members’ distinct responsibilities during the creation of the microprocessor.
• The famous trio of Harry, Ron, and Hermione in fiction exemplify mutual reliance and unique roles.

6. Small Teams Win Big

The optimal team size ranges from five to nine members. This size fosters personalized interaction, reduces miscommunication, and builds cohesion while still allowing diversity. Leaders in such teams can better connect and motivate individuals. However, picking the right team members remains key, requiring decision-making to focus on skills and cultural fit rather than personal preferences.

Examples

• Studies prove humans can process five to nine items (like numbers or names) at a time effectively.
• Five-member tech teams solve problems faster by ensuring quality collaboration.
• Many globally successful startups begin as small, tightly-knit groups.

7. Celebrating Beginnings Sparks Motivation

Just as we honor personal milestones like weddings or birthdays, team formation deserves celebration. The start of a new team sets the tone for its culture, relationships, and goals. Leaders can foster immediate bonds by hosting introductory events or team “kickoffs,” where members share their stories and align on foundational values.

Examples

• Wedding receptions showcase new partnerships and shared future goals.
• A kickoff meeting allows members of newly formed project teams to meet and discuss roles.
• Introducing a company’s cultural values at an engaging workshop ensures early alignment.

8. Communication is the Glue of Teams

Regular communication fosters alignment, trust, and momentum in any team. Weekly meetings, open communication tools, and inclusive leadership ensure issues get resolved early. Without sufficient communication, teams risk misunderstandings and lack of progress.

Examples

• Daily standup meetings in tech teams maintain clear goals.
• Video conferencing ensures global teams stay connected.
• Open forums invite team members to share concerns and ideas directly with leadership.

9. Farewell Moments Strengthen Team Morale

While initial team celebrations matter, how you appreciate departing members says a lot about a team’s culture. Acknowledging contributions when someone leaves enhances group morale and helps team bonds. This practice ensures members feel valued and remembered within their professional journey.

Examples

• Farewell parties express gratitude for a colleague’s efforts and dedication.
• Recognition emails or team letters keep a positive sentiment among remaining members.
• Introducing and mentoring new members continues the collaborative cycle effectively.

Takeaways

1. Organize a team kickoff event to align goals, create bonds, and celebrate the start of a project.
2. Build teams with diverse thinkers who approach problems differently for innovation and creativity.
3. Appreciate both joining and departing team members to strengthen bonds and maintain positive culture.