5 Dysfunctions of a Team

Overcoming the 5 Dysfunctions of a Team

It is teamwork that brings us forward, but also the lack of it that holds us back. In his book, Patrick Lencioni lays out the 5 dysfunctions that can lead to the downfall of your mission.

Let's find out how you can not only recognize the dysfunctions, but overcome them and transform your team into a cohesive and high-performing team.

🤭 Absence of Trust

Problem When your team is reluctant to be vulnerable and admit their mistakes, weaknesses, or need for help.

Solution Lead by example: • Ask for help • Admit your own weaknesses and limitations • Be the first to own up to a mistake • Spend time getting to know your team

Slowly, these habits will become culture and build the foundation of a trusting team.

🤼‍♂️ Fear of Conflict

Problem Without trust, your team don't raise important issues and risks, they prefer false harmony over debate, and tension goes unaddressed.

Solution • Discuss the value of conflict and define what a healthy one looks like. • "Mine for conflict" by asking directly if people disagree. • Suggest a purposefully bad idea to get people comfortable with raising concerns.

🤨 Lack of Commitment

Problem Without conflict, it is hard for team members to commit to decisions. Disagreement bubbles under the surface, so people work slowly towards goals or they don't work at all.

Solution Clarity and closure are key to overcome this: • Set clear deadlines • Review key decisions at the end of meetings • Make contingency plans to conquer the fear of failure

🏃 Avoidance of Accountability

Problem Without committing to clear plan of action, team members won't take ownership and are unable to call out others for avoiding responsibility.

Solution • Set clear expectations and deadlines, and call out if they are missed • Push for continuous feedback in the team to live up to standards you agreed on • Recognize when people deliver and step up

🎯 Inattention to Results

Problem When team members tend to put their own needs (ego, career development, recognition, etc.) ahead of the collective goals of the team.

Solution When your team has a solid base of trust, healthy conflict, commitment and team accountability, and are praised for team performance, it will be easier for them to put their own needs aside for the sake of the team.