ADMINISTRATIVE THEORY AND PRACTICE Factors contributing to effectiveness of the administrative practices within organisations EFFECTIVE TEAMS

TEAM WORKING A team – a group who have been specially formed for a particular purpose – to achieve a particular aim. Characteristics of a team:  A shared purpose or goal  A sense of belonging  A dependence/reliance on each other.

Belbin’s factors for effective teams Ideal team size  4-6 members  Larger team risks sub-groups forming and difficulties for quieter members to participate  Smaller team risks one person dominating or too few skills/ideas.

TEAM ROLES  Ideas person  Motivator  Organiser  Implementer  Checker  Finisher  Go-getter  Team player  Specialist

SKILLS OF TEAM MEMBERS  Leadership skills – someone who influences others towards the achievement of goals. Motivates the team, sets vision and communicates information, provides support and minimises conflict  Listening skills – members should be able to listen to each other’s ideas and points of view  Communication skills – members should be able to put their thoughts into words for everyone to understand. Communicate verbally and in writing

Factors determining the effectiveness of teams  Team composition – personality, interests, age etc  Team development – working together as team to get to know one another  Shared goals – all working towards the same end goal  Team maintenance – members must be able to take part in regular activities to maintain relationship  Leadership – motivates team to achieve goals – sets vision, meets needs of team and individuals, liaises within and outwith team  Communication – the ability to listen to each other and respect others’ opinions

Description of an effective team  Relaxed atmosphere  Relevant discussion with participation of all  Clear commitment to objectives  Allow members to listen to one another  Discuss conflicts openly  Reach decisions by consensus  Allow shared leadership  Promote self evaluation.

Benefits of effective team working to the Individual  Increased morale and motivation – greater involvement  Shared knowledge and skills  Risk taking – try new ideas  Sense of being valued and belonging

Benefits of effective team working to the Organisation  Multi-skilling  Responsibility – less supervision  Higher productivity  Risk-taking giving competitive edge

To sum up you should know: Features of effective teams Team formation Leadership skills and skills of team members Benefits to individuals and the organisation of effective team working.