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Building a connected team is necessary for creating a high-performance culture. When a team feels connected, it fosters innovation and cultivates a culture of trust and respect — the foundations for a thriving organization.
But what does it take to connect a team? Connection begins with alignment, collaboration and a shared sense of purpose and is deepened through empathy, inclusion and clear communication.
1. A connected team is aligned on goals + expectations.
A connected team is an aligned team.
When everyone understands the company’s mission and how their work contributes, they feel a stronger connection to their roles and each other. Clear goals and expectations allow team members to move in the same direction, minimizing confusion and maximizing impact. This sense of alignment helps everyone work toward common objectives, increasing individual and collective accountability.
2. A connected team fosters collaboration + trust.
Collaboration is where alignment turns into action.
A connected team collaborates seamlessly, sharing knowledge and resources to achieve common goals. However, collaboration only thrives in an environment of trust. When team members trust each other, they are more likely to share ideas, take risks and support each other. This trust builds respect, which is critical for a cohesive and resilient team.
3. A connected team cultivates empathy + respect.
Empathy is the glue that holds a connected team together.
Understanding and valuing different perspectives fosters a culture of respect. When team members feel respected, they are more engaged and motivated. Respect also translates into a greater sense of inclusion and belonging. Everyone feels seen, heard and valued, which enhances their commitment to the team and the organization.
4. A connected team drives performance through accountability.
A connected team is a high-performing team.
With alignment, collaboration and trust in place, team members hold themselves and each other accountable. This accountability drives performance, because everyone understands their role and takes responsibility for their contributions. When accountability is a shared value, it encourages excellence and continuous improvement.
5. A connected team nurtures innovation + creativity.
Innovation flourishes in a connected team.
Creativity thrives when team members feel safe to express their ideas without fear of judgment. This openness leads to new ways of thinking and problem-solving, giving the organization a competitive edge. Leaders play a crucial role in nurturing this environment by encouraging curiosity and experimentation.
6. A connected team enhances wellbeing + meaningful work.
A connected team also prioritizes wellbeing.
When team members feel supported professionally and personally, they are more likely to perform at their best. Leaders who invest in the wellbeing of their teams help create a positive work environment where employees find meaning in their work. This sense of purpose morale and drives long-term engagement.
Clear communication is the foundation of a connected team.
A connected team cannot exist without transparent communication. It’s the thread that weaves through every aspect of a connected team. Effective communication keeps everyone on the same page, reducing misunderstandings and fostering transparency. Clear communication also supports collaboration, trust, empathy and all the other components that strengthen a team.
Live learning builds + supports connected teams.
Live learning is powerful for creating and supporting connected teams because it brings people together in real time, fostering interaction, discussion and shared experiences. Live learning reinforces alignment, encourages collaboration and builds trust while providing a platform for team members to express empathy, learn from each other and grow together.
Live learning also strengthens inclusion and belonging. When everyone participates in learning opportunities, it signals that every voice matters. This inclusivity enhances the sense of connection among team members, making them feel more engaged and committed to the organization.
Leadership has a role in creating a connected team.
Leaders set the tone for how teams connect. They must model the behaviors they want to see — including clear communication, empathy and accountability. By prioritizing the traits of a connected team, leaders create an environment where connections flourish..
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