Managing teams performance

In today’s workplace, team dynamics and performance are central to success. As a manager, you’re expected to keep teams aligned, motivated, and productive. But how do you actually manage team performance in a meaningful way?

⚙️ Factors That Influence Team Performance

• 🔍 Clarity of team goals and priorities
• 🧩 Internal team dynamics and collaboration
• 📈 Team’s ability to self-manage and monitor progress
• 🧭 Leadership quality, even in self-managed teams
• 🎯 Individual skill levels and multi-skilling
• 🛠️ Access to systems and support resources

🎯 Setting Work Objectives

Team objectives work just like individual goals. Start with a clear understanding of the team’s purpose and responsibilities. From there, define performance targets and timelines together. For project-based teams, use a plan that outlines:

• What needs to be done
• Who’s responsible
• Quality standards
• Delivery deadlines

🔄 Setting Process Objectives

Don’t just focus on what the team does—also define how they work together. These “process goals” cover areas like:

• Interpersonal relationships
• Participation in decisions and collaboration
• Customer interactions (internal/external)
• Planning and control of tasks
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Use of team member skills
• Quality of communication

🧩 Team Performance Reviews

Review meetings help teams reflect and improve. Here’s a useful format:

1. General Feedback

• Team progress and achievements
• Roadblocks or issues that slowed things down
• What helped or hindered performance

2. Work Review

• Overall team function and collaboration
• Peer review of individual contributions
• Highlighting any new challenges or needs

3. Group Problem Solving

• Analyze shortfalls or performance gaps
• Brainstorm fixes and agree on solutions

4. Updating Goals

• Consider any new opportunities or risks
• Revise project plans and objectives if needed

📝 Key Takeaways

• Clarity, autonomy, and leadership directly impact team performance.
• Set both outcome and process goals for better alignment.
• Use regular reviews to reflect, solve issues, and reset direction.

📚 Related Training Packages

• 📘 Lead, Motivate & Inspire – Leadership Skills Training Package
• 📘 Managing People – Management Skills Training Package

🧠 Related Self-Assessments

• Team Role Quiz – Find out what role you naturally take in a team setting and how it impacts group performance.
• How Do You Value Other People's Time? – Reflect on your time awareness and respect for others’ priorities.