by Bob Corbett

The leader of a team is like the conductor of an orchestra. An orchestra is an example of diverse group or team with a common goal - to make beautiful music together! The orchestra consists of many different and talented members playing a variety of instruments, sometimes with different interpretations of the music to be played.

The conductor's objective is to lead and unleash the Best talent of orchestra members to create the ultimate musical experience for the audience and a high level of satisfaction for members by :

• Integrating multiple talents and instruments into one sound.
• Creating safe, creative space for members to question and express their talents.
• Facilitating creative thinking by challenging members' typical interpretation of the music played.
• Creating a sense of commitment and connectedness.
• Providing the opportunity for both collective and individual satisfaction.

So the question is: How can leaders of organizations effectively unleash the Best in their teams to achieve important objectives? The Best ways to unleash the Best in team members are to:

• Create a supportive environment by developing a working relationship based on trust and commitment.
• Assess their strengths, interests and needs.
• Coach them on ways to leverage strengths.
• Set clearly communicated expectations.
• Develop alignment around team goals, plans and their execution.
• Encourage creative thinking and insights by challenging traditional/typical thinking.
• Ensure nothing's left unsaid by encouraging healthy debates, collaboration, and accountability for important team goals, plans and processes.
• Be willing to actively listen and be influenced by the perspectives of members.
• Within the context of agreed upon team goals allow individualized approaches to getting things done.
• Celebrate successes.

For more information on how Karlin Sloan & Company can help your team leverage diversity and encourage effective thinking, contact us at clientrelations@karlinsloan.com.

Awards can be in non-cash and/or cash forms. The timing can range from spot awards to quarterly, semi-annual or annual. The recognition of success can be an institutionalized or an interim practice. Finally the range of simplicity can be from a pat on the back to a formal planned event, e.g., at a resort hotel. We all want recognition, and when it's for a team's job well done, that recognition goes a long way.

Sample Non-Cash Awards

• Off-site group recognition event recognizing all contributors with special consideration for contributions above and beyond.
• Formal recognition by the leader at a staff or all hands meeting.
• A personal call from the leader and/or member of senior management.
• A certificate of acknowledgement or plaque.
• Use of a company parking space.
• Time off from work.
• Executive development programs (one-on-one coaching, sending someone to a conference or training course).

Sample Cash or Cash Value Awards

• Spot cash award in form of a check (check the tax code for any limitations).
• Gift Certificate for purchases, travel or hotel stay (check tax code for limits).
• In technical organizations consider research grants for individuals or teams for key discoveries.