Team Projects – How to Get the Best Results Working Together
We all have our way of working.  Some work better with constant interaction and enjoy sharing responsibility.
 
If you’re anything like me, however, you prefer to be in control of a project.  You’d rather work alone than share responsibility.  I have my own way of doing things; there is a method to the madness, I like to say.  And whenever I am required to work with others, I prefer to be in charge of the project so I can make sure it’s done right.


But some projects are either too big for one person or affect multiple departments. 

Here are five tips to ensure group project success.

1. Immediately establish who is responsible for what.

Morton Blackwell’s sixth law of the public policy process “Give ‘em a title, and get ‘em involved,” is never more accurate than when you’re working in a large team.  Make sure everyone is in charge of something, ideally the area of the project that most excites them and utilizes their talents.  Who is best at marketing, digital, event planning, etc.?

2. Schedule regular meetings with an agenda.

At the beginning of any project, establish a consistent time to meet.  This may be once or twice a week.  Meetings give colleagues the opportunity to bounce ideas off each other and ensure a degree of accountability.  An agenda can include action items, which you will follow up at the next meeting. If someone cannot be present at the meeting, make sure they’re caught up at a later date. 

via GIPHY

3. Create an online team chat.

Some great online platforms are available to enable you to share ideas, documents, schedule meetings, and discussion.  By discussing your project within a group chat, you can share thoughts and keep the group project in the minds of all the team members.  Online chats also mean you don’t have to wait until the next meeting if there’s something you’d like to discuss. 

4. Don’t be afraid to lean on others or request more responsibility.

The best thing about working in a group is mutual accountability for the success of your overall project.  Check in with your team members on a regular basis and make sure they’re being challenged.  Likewise, if a colleague is overwhelmed because of other responsibilities, don’t be afraid to step in.  If you’re in need of assistance, ask others in your team for help. 

via GIPHY

5. Share the credit.

It is critical for team morale that all members of the project receive credit for its success.   If one person’s contribution isn’t recognized, it is essential to recognize them. Likewise, if something goes wrong, it could be a collective failure and is something the team should address as a whole.  

Maintaining team morale is essential to a successful group project, as individuals will greatly impact each other’s enthusiasm. 

Finally!  Group projects can be a lot of fun and a great way to build your relationships with colleagues.  Just follow the steps above, and you’ll enjoy a successful outcome.

via GIPHY