When I ask managers to tell me a little about how well their teams are performing, I find most people start by describing each individual. This person’s strengths, that person’s challenges, the potential he shows, how loyal she is. Often, the manager doesn’t even comment on the group as a whole, but instead focuses on how well each team member does his or her own job. I usually have to specifically ask, “How would you describe the level of teamwork among this group?” to get a feel for the current dynamics of the department.
Not surprisingly, managers sometimes find themselves with a team of people who are individually strong but collectively weak. This often happens when a manager hires for job fit only, without making sure the person will be a good fit for the team as well. I’ve seen many instances where an employee with great skills and talent, solid experience and excellent knowledge simply can’t get along with the rest of the group. Where others grudgingly admit this person delivers results, yet no one really wants him or her on the team.
