Creating a strong team culture 

What is team culture? 

Team culture refers to a set of values, beliefs and behaviours that members of a team share and uphold. A strong team culture reflects the business’ values and strengths, and is shared by all the team members. It is also essential for a team to work together successfully. 

Why should you create a strong team culture? 

Strong team culture can reduce conflict and encourage valuable contributions from all team members. It fosters efficient collaboration and open communication, resulting in a positive and engaging workplace, and in turn drive performance.  

Five steps to creating a strong team culture 

1. Define your team culture 

State team values clearly. What are the shared beliefs among team members when it comes to achieving business goals? How do team values align with work protocols and policies? Finally, how can team members support one another? 

2. Keep expectations clear 

Share these values with the team. Use team building activities or events to communicate and reinforce these values. Ensure that everyone knows the standards of success.  

3. Recognise how you set the tone 

It is important to build trust and loyalty among your team for a smooth workflow. Consider all ideas and contributions valuable. Resolve conflict when it arises. Keep up a positive attitude and communicate openly. 

4. Evaluate team performance 

Once team values have been established, evaluate your team’s performance to see if these values have been helpful. Get team members talk about their progress and performance as a team.  

5. Reinforce team culture 

A strong team culture should last. Reinforce team culture by recognising members who have reflected team values in their work. Encourage brainstorming and listening to team members to appreciate one another’s ideas. 

References 

Berkeley People & Culture. “Steps to Building an Effective Team”. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://hr.berkeley.edu/hr-network/central-guide-managing-hr/managing-hr/interaction/team-building/steps  

Glassdoor. “Team Culture: Identifiers, Benefits, and How to Build One that Works”. Accessed August 13, 2021. https://www.glassdoor.com/blog/guide/team-culture/  

Heathfield, Susan M. “Build Teamwork into Your Company Culture”. Updated November 29, 2019. https://www.thebalancecareers.com/how-to-build-a-teamwork-culture-1918509  

Jones, Scott. “Building a Strong Team Culture That Lasts – Even Through a Pandemic”. Posted February 8, 2021. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/building-strong-team-culture-lasts-even-through-scott-jones-fcim  

Rodriguez-Zaba, Diana. “How to Build a Strong Team Culture in Seven Steps”. Forbes. June 20, 2019. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbeschicagocouncil/2019/06/20/how-to-build-a-strong-team-culture-in-seven-steps/