Jamie Morley

Discussion Comment

Eileen, Coaching educators can be challenging. Just like they say that "doctor's make the worst patients"; "teachers sometimes make the worst students." Usually educators understand the necessity for group process. Even when course objectives or textbooks are locked in stone, for example, faculty can work together to establish norms for handling students. Even if they donâ€™t agree, they will tend to comply if they feel they at least had input. Dr. Jamie Morley

Jamie Morley

Discussion Comment

Team Engagement

Nicholas, Very good point. Sometimes people think that their experiences are non interesting and they don't share. However, what seems mundane to one person, may stimulate creative thought in another. As a team leader, the best thing you can do is foster a safe environment where people feel comfortable sharing. Well done! Dr. Jamie Morley

Jamie Morley

Discussion Comment

Team Engagement

Linda, What great insight into the importance of purposeful listening! Too often, team leaders will get input from team members even though the outcome has been predetermined. Placating people in this way does not help them grow in their roles and usually provides little value -- except to speed along the process. As you state, it is through listening that respect is built. Nicely done! Dr. Jamie Morley

Jamie Morley

Discussion Comment

The Challenge of Teambuilding

Heather, It is difficult to build camaraderie when there is disinterest and negativity. One suggestion is to set ground rules for the team so that they are easy to point to if you need to redirect a problem team member. Sometimes, giving the disruptive member a specific role that requires him or her to focus on one outcome is helpful. Often, approaching the person in private and expressing your concern about their behavior is enough to change their attitude and make them more of a team player. Dr. Jamie Morley

Jamie Morley

Discussion Comment

Team Leader

David, Your post made me smile. It reminds me of the quote that states, "Great leaders do not flock together; you find them one at a time." Many people can be trained to be a manager, but it is hard to make a manager a leader if that person does not have the innate abilities to lead. Nice analogies. Dr. Jamie Morley

Jamie Morley

Discussion Comment

The Challenge of Teambuilding

Larry, There is always one problem person in every team it seems! A strong leader can mitigate many of the problems by doing as you suggest and addressing concerns head-on. Sometimes, concerns emanate because the leader did not ask for the team's opinion and get their buy-in. This is a step that some managers skip because it is quicker to give direction and opposed to finding consensus when possible. Taking the time on the front end saves significant heartburn on the back in. Nice insights! Dr. Jamie Morley

Jamie Morley

Discussion Comment

Team Engagement

Carinne, You are right on point! One strategy you can use to remind team members of how their previous contributions have made a difference is to create a "kudos" board. On this board, team members, managers, or even students can write a note to thank somebody that went above and beyond. The comments can be read at a faculty or staff meeting to recognize the employee. Making task lists is another good strategy. Sharing Outlook calendars allows people to view the progress of other team members' tasks. Smart phones also have organization tools that can help team members keep the… >>>

Jamie Morley

Discussion Comment

Team Engagement

Kelly, Involving all members in team discussions is a good idea. Sometimes however, divergent thinking can lead to arguments and stonewalling of new ideas. Have you witnessed this in the team that you have been on, and if so, how did you address it? Dr. Jamie Morley

Jamie Morley

Discussion Comment

The Challenge of Teambuilding

Angelia, People that make negative comments can be very distracting! One option is to set ground rules for the meetings. Another option is to speak to that person privately. Sometimes, asking the person to reframe the comment in a positive manner, is a constructive way to help them understand that the tone is not appropriate for that forum. Best of luck! Dr. Jamie Morley

Jamie Morley

Discussion Comment

The Challenge of Teambuilding

Judith, You are right on point! Ignoring issues can create negative energy. Managers sometimes struggle with redirecting people with negative energy or addressing negative people, which have strong opinions. One on one coaching works well, as opposed to confronting them in front of the group. It is also important to be specific. Telling an employee to, "stop being negative" is not that helpful. Rather, focus on the specifics of the behavior and how it is impacting the team. For example, "rolling your eyes when other employees make suggestions is making people uncomfortable" or "I have noticed that you are not… >>>