A successful team works well together to accomplish their goals. While this will look different for every team, some components are essential for all successful teams.

Here we will explore the components of a successful team and provide insights on how to build a successful team for your business or start-up.

What you’ll need: 

• 15-45 minutes. 
• Pens, notebook, or your preferred notetaking method.

Components of a Successful Team

1. Have SMART goals and celebrate success when met.

• SMART goals are goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based.
• SMART goals allow team members to track progress and focus their attention.
• Having a clear unified goal ensures all team members are working towards the same destination.
• Celebrate success when SMART goals are met, motivating action towards the next goal.

• Define each role.

• A strong team has well-defined roles, allowing each member to contribute something meaningful and specific.
• It also clarifies responsibilities, enables team members to accomplish their tasks effectively and prevents confusion.

• Create a shared culture and celebrate diversity of ideas.

• Foster a positive and motivating workplace culture by setting up communication styles and work behaviour guidelines that suit the team.
• Encourage open communication and embrace different perspectives to benefit from diverse ideas.

• Hold the team accountable.

• As a leader, hold each member accountable for their responsibilities.
• Lead by example, holding yourself accountable to your team.

• Allow for feedback.

• Feedback is a constructive tool for teams to address weaknesses and improve.
• Inform your team when you intend to provide feedback so they can be prepared.
• Allow your team to provide feedback to you. Show that you listen to feedback. Consider an anonymous feedback system as well.

How to Actually Build a Team

If you don't have a team yet, here are some insights on how to establish one:

1. Network and establish a strong social media presence.

• Get out there! Show of your business or start-up.
• Share your entrepreneurial passion and strategic vision - you will attract like-minded but diverse individuals.
• You can also promote vacancies in your team on social media platforms, LinkedIn, and job sites like Indeed to increase the likelihood of finding a good match.
• Utilise your existing network - you may find someone you already is a good fit and is looking for a job. Especially for first hires, this can be a solid option.

• When hiring, balance hard skills and soft skills.

• It is crucial to evaluate an entrepreneurial team based on a balance between hard skills (experience) and soft skills (passion and vision) to build a successful start-up team.
• Evaluate potential candidates not only based on competencies and skills but also their alignment with the company's values. This fosters a sense of passion and commitment among team members.

• Be patient and thorough in the selection process.

• Take the time to find candidates who not only possess the necessary skills but also resonate with the company's values and culture.
• Prioritize fit over speed to create a harmonious and effective team.

4. Start Small

• Rome wasn't built in a day and neither will your start-up or business.
• Slowly expand your team in alignment with your business vision, but also budget and capacity.
• Focus on small actionable steps that pay attention to team dynamics, values, and effective communication.
• By focusing on these aspects, start-ups can create a motivated and committed team that drives the company towards success.

Further Support 

For more information on developing your entrepreneurial skills or launching your business idea, book a 1:1 here.