Myths of Teams
Here is one of my favorite topics for discussion.
Since my first real job in 1969 I have worked in various types of teams. Some of them were excellent, most often the ad hoc teams formed for a specific project. I recall when the push for teams exploded in the 70s and 80s. Teams were to be the magic fix for every corporate problem. Whole libraries were written.
That effort never delivered the promised results, due to the reasons given above. Along the way I developed a workshop exercise I called, "Myths About Teams." I list these 8 myths below.
Some of them may be a little dated, but this should be a good exercise anyway. I invite you to respond, telling us whether you agree or disagree with each myth.
I will post my own comments in a few days.
1. Teams can become totally self-directed so that they don't need leaders.
2. Team members should all be friends.
3. Team members should all be equally good at all jobs.
4. All team members can rise to the top.
5. The team functions as a safety net for the individual and the supervisor.
6. The key attitude for a team is forgiveness.
7. There is no "I" in team.
8. All members of a team have an equal role.
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