The key to doing so is to employ a “teaming mindset.” In this model, leaders portray success as something shared and expansive.
Leaders can use the following three tactics to help team members see the value in collaboration and a “teaming mindset.”
1. Model the “teaming mindset” behavior you’re hoping to inspire. Leaders can demonstrate curiosity and interest in those they work with, ask them questions and respond thoughtfully. Modeling this behavior will encourage team members to value each other.
2. Place a value on and reward successful teaming more than individual performance. A little competition is not bad in and of itself, but rewarding individual performance too often can result in a zero-sum game, where one employee’s success depends on another’s failure. By doing so, team members may channel their competitive energy into a desire to outperform other organizations in the industry.
3. Frame the challenge ahead as something in need of diverse perspectives and skills. Help each employee see the unique talents, knowledge and expertise that each person brings to the table. Show your team that success can be greater when people work together for the sake of a larger prize.
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