Teamwork and ProblemSolving Skills Chapter 4 Teamwork and

Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills Chapter 4

Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills Brainstorming is a group technique used to develop many ideas in a relatively short time. n It is a very good way to identify answers to a problem. n The quality of the ideas is not a major concern during brainstorming. n The purpose is to identify as many ideas as possible. n

Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills n Compromise is when each side gives up something of value to help solve a problem. All sides accept the idea, but no one may feel it is the best one. n This is because they gave up something that was important. n n Voting is often used to reach a compromise.

Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills n A consensus is when all members of a group fully accept and support the decision. n This is much more difficult to reach than a compromise. n When everyone agrees with the decision, they are more likely to be excited about carrying it out. n Ideas must be thoroughly discussed and understood by all team members before a consensus can be reached.

Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills n As a result, the process often leads to new and creative ideas that either side considered in the beginning. n There is no need for a vote since everyone fully supports a decision reached by full consensus. n A major problem with achieving consensus is it’s time consuming. You may not want to try to reach a consensus for all decisions.

Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills n As you work with others, whether as individuals or in teams, disagreements are bound to occur. n More serious disagreements are called conflict. n Conflict is a hostile situation resulting from opposing views. n It is important to know how to handle conflict so it does not become a destructive force in the workplace.

Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills In a traditional work setting, a manager supervises a group of employees. n That manager is responsible for managing conflict. n In teamwork arrangements, however, the individuals have a responsibility to prevent destructive conflict among team members. n The person temporarily assigned to lead the team has a special responsibility. n

Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills n n n Steps to Managing Conflict 1. ) Know when to intervene Knowing how to manage conflict when they occur is part of being an effective team player. Disagreements aren’t always bad. Constructive disagreements often lead to improvements in the workplace. One of the first decisions you must make is whether to become involved. It’s sometimes best not to act.

Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills n n What seems terribly important at the moment may later seem unimportant or even trivial. Sometimes your action may even make a difficult situation worse. Avoiding or ignoring a serious disagreement only postpones the time when conflict will result and action will be required. It is time to consider action when the team or individual’s happiness and/or productivity are affected.

Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills 2. ) Address the Conflict n The first consideration is to take a positive approach. n Treat others as you would want to be treated. n Try to understand the issue from the other person’s point of view. n Try to protect the person’s self esteem and never try to embarrass them. n

Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills Whenever possible, try to avoid addressing the problem in front of others. n Find a quiet place to resolve the conflict so you won’t be distracted. n Talk directly to the person or persons involved. n Use a calm, firm voice. n Use “I” messages instead of “You” messages. n

Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills n n n 3. ) Identify the Source and Importance of the Conflict State the problem openly. Encourage each person to describe the problem as he or she sees it. Be sure there is a real problem, not simply a misunderstanding. Keep an open mind as the problem is discussed. Focus on getting all the facts expressed.

Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills 4. ) Identify Possible Solution n Be sure everyone involved understands they are responsible for both the problem and the solution. n Anyone who is not involved in the matter should not be included in the discussion. n Ask for comments and possible solutions from all sides and discuss the pros and cons. n

Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills 5. ) Develop an Acceptable Solution n Focus on behavior that can be changed, not something a person cannot control. n At the end of the discussion, summarize what has been decided and what action will be taken. n Make sure everyone understands his or her role in solving the problem. n

Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills 6. ) Implement and Evaluate n Be willing to become involved in carrying out the plan. n Avoid thinking it’s not your problem. n Be sure to check to make sure teamwork has improved to an extent. n If not, it’s time to try to resolve the conflict again. n