How to Build a Dream Team
In 2019, I founded a non-profit organization called Women of Purpose, driven by a vision based on a need I observed in our culture. I recognized that this challenge could not be tackled alone and was never meant to be! I knew I needed a team of motivated individuals to help make a difference in our communities.
I’m proud to say that I have assembled a Dream Team. Each Women of Purpose Board member brings a unique skill set and talent that is truly unmatched. Their commitment to serving and helping women discover, develop, and activate their purpose is inspiring.
As leaders, we often believe we are solely responsible for our organization’s vision and outcomes. This mindset can lead us to take on roles that should be shared among a team. It’s crucial to understand that one person cannot possess all the necessary knowledge and skills to complete a project successfully.
We’ve all heard that “teamwork makes the dream work.” I firmly believe any successful initiative will yield more significant results when a strong team and the leader support the mission. Each individual has unique abilities that can create a powerful force for substantial and lasting change when integrated into the right team.
So, what should you consider when building a solid team for your business, organization, non-profit, or church?
Intentionally Surround Yourself with People Who Don’t Think Like You
Most people try to avoid conflict, and many leaders fall into this trap by only inviting those who think like them onto their teams. However, there is significant value in having diverse opinions. Different perspectives help identify obstacles, evaluate calculated risks, and set clear deliverables to achieve and exceed goals. Leadership is not about ensuring everyone agrees; it's about ensuring the team successfully accomplishes its objectives.
As a leader, an effective team allows you and your organization to see the big picture. You might wonder, “But what if they don’t agree with me?” The reality is that they won’t always agree and that diversity of thought makes a team stronger. As you carefully build your team, you'll discover that each member brings a unique perspective crucial for your organization's growth. While agreeing on everything is unnecessary, considering various viewpoints can save you time, energy, and resources.
Let’s be clear: disagreement does not equate to disrespect! Team members need to respect one another and uphold your organization’s core values. I assure you that incorporating different perspectives into a team where individuals value each other will enhance both your team's dynamics and your organization's overall performance.
Build a Team with Both Passion and Skill:
There has been much debate about hiring someone passionate about the job or with the necessary skill set. Hiring someone purely for their passion may result in a team member who talks a lot but needs more action. On the other hand, hiring someone solely based on their competencies might lead to a lack of motivation to pursue the team's vision. Therefore, both passion and skill are essential. The balance may not always be 50/50, but having both elements is crucial.
In my leadership experience, I have had the privilege of working with incredible individuals, and I can confidently say that having a dedicated team player who is both passionate and hardworking is invaluable.
Appreciate and Value the Perspectives of Others:
One of the most valuable lessons I've learned as a leader is the importance of listening. While I am naturally articulate and never at a loss for words, I have realized that talking with listening can be beneficial. I have come to value feedback and, more importantly, to apply what I have learned from it. Unfortunately, many receive constructive feedback but fail to implement it or make necessary changes.
I remember a lesson I learned early in my career about delivering bad news. My habit was to wait until the end of the day to share it. A team member once referred to this as "dropping it like it's hot." Until then, I wasn’t aware that this behavior negatively affected my team. One day, a team member expressed that it made them feel undervalued as if I wasn’t interested in their feedback or available to address their questions and concerns. That was certainly not the message I wanted to convey, but it was the impression I had created.
At first, I was taken aback by this feedback, but I realized I had a choice in interpreting and responding to it. I aspired to be a great leader, so I asked myself, "La-Kita, are you going to do something with this?" My answer was a resounding YES. I took the necessary steps to improve my communication style. No more “dropping it like it’s hot.” I made a conscious effort to be available for questions and to listen to my team’s concerns.
I define leadership as "influencing and inspiring individuals and teams to create positive change and accomplish goals."
As you build your Dream Team
Strategically select individuals who bring diverse perspectives and foster a culture of mutual respect.
Ensure that you include team members who are both passionate about your organization's mission and dedicated to delivering results.
Leadership requires a commitment to continuous learning, so choose team members who remain curious and are committed to being lifelong learners.
You might be wondering whether this advice is relevant only to businesses and the for-profit sector or if it can also apply to churches and nonprofit organizations that rely on volunteers. The answer is YES; these principles can and should be used to build healthy, strong teams within your local church. When Jesus chose his original disciples, the Scriptures illustrate their diverse personalities, which are reflected in how they are portrayed and the conversations and actions recorded in Scripture. Jesus did not seek individuals who would always agree amongst themselves; he looked for passionate people who could be shaped and guided.
To avoid fostering a culture of groupthink as a pastor or volunteer leader, including individuals with differing perspectives is essential. This diversity allows for a more comprehensive approach to achieving your goals and fulfilling your church’s mission.
Developing strong teams takes work; it requires time, discernment, grit, and a commitment to helping others realize their potential. However, investing in your people will yield significant returns when cultivating your Dream Team!
As we enter this season of gratitude, recognize that this year has posed significant challenges. Yet, your teams have relentlessly given 110%, demonstrating exceptional dedication in the face of adversity. Employees and volunteers have put in extra hours and adapted their lifestyles to meet your organizational goals. Please don’t wait to show them your appreciation; they must know their hard work is valued.
La-Kita
“Be a Leader Worth Following”