Building the team is a great challenge.

But perhaps a greater challenge is keeping the team focussed on the goals of the organization where there is a tendency at times for individuals to put their individual/departmental needs before those of the organization.

-- Bob Vincent (bvincent@dermalogica.ca), November 24, 2000

Answers

Bob,

Keeping your team focused is a great challenge. What I find to be effective is having regular informal meetings/get togethers (such as Friday morning bagels, etc.), to keep the interoffice releationships going.

An important part of keeping team members focused on the goals of the organization is regular discussions of organizational goals and how meeting these goals will benefit the individual teams and team members.

Although all departments don't need to know how to get on the phone and sell, for example, it's important that these departments know the goals of the company as a whole, and have a clear understanding of how they can contribute- i.e., customer service, production deadlines, etc.

Recognizing achievement in regards to company goals is also extremely important. Annual incentives (a weekend spa getaway), to a few valued members, also help towards achieving these goals.

-- Mira Kolker (Mira@Mirakol.com), November 26, 2000.