Tuesday, July 08, 2008

Glue

We need to pay more attention to the glue that holds teams together.

This is more important than ever due to our increasing diversity.

Some might quickly respond that the need for a paycheck is sufficiently binding and yet there are so many other factors that can make many "one." Among them are:
  • An association with a larger purpose. A large number of people find the primary meaning of life in their work.
  • Interactions with nice people. Pleasant co-workers are one of the best retention programs out there.
  • Loyalty. This may be to a cause or to a project but often the loyalty is to a person or a group. I've met people who've noted that their employer stood by them during some tough personal times and they were determined to reciprocate.
  • The desire not to let others down. The military discovered this years ago. You don't want to let down the person next to you.
  • Shared values. It is best if these are identified and discussed but even if they are simply assumed, their presence can make all the difference.
  • Tolerance. A reasonable acceptance for diverse approaches and people is essential.

I'm sure that I've missed some significant ones. "Glue" is a topic worth revisiting.

3 comments:

Kurt Harden said...

You absolutely hit the nail on the head. Great thoughts. Thanks.

Rowan Manahan said...

Wonderful thoughts Michael. It seems to me that mankind's innate selfish streak just needs this kind of reminder every now and again.

Almost every time I ask groups about their best working-life memories, the answers centre on "pulling together" or "working really well as a team." Isn't it interesting how quickly we forget those moments and retreat into our self-involved little worlds?

Michael Wade said...

You want the outreach to bring a diverse and talented bunch on board and then the glue to bind them together.