To help your team grow from its formation into a high-performing unit, it's important to understand what a high-performing unit-based team looks like. What characteristics does it have? Co-leads can discuss the following descriptions with each other, with their team members, and with their sponsors. Where are you now compared to where you want to be? Keeping your eye on the target can help you move through the sometimes-difficult developmental phases of team building.

If everyone understands where the team is headed, you'll get there faster!

High-performing teams exhibit:

• A focus on core operational and business issues that lead to performance improvement in alignment with regional priorities and strategy.
• Success measures, developed by the unit-based team members, that are keeping wtih overall regional performance goals.
• High levels of trust. 
• A focus on the "cultural" components of the team, including trust, working relationships and mindset.
• Knowledge of where they are on the developmental continuum and understanding of what it takes to move to the next level.
• A culture that enables them to respond to changes quickly.
• Engagement of all team members in decision making and performance improvement.
• High-functioning system of communication.
• Awareness and understanding of their sponsor/leaders' role change to coach, facilitate and mentor.
• An ability to achieve results over multiple indicators.
• A deep knowledge of the business.
• Consistent use of critical thinking skills.
• Understanding of how each member personally contributes to business results, achieving sustainability and spreading successful practices.
• Understanding and use of data to drive results.
• Quick resolution of workplace issues.
• A high level of employee engagement and high morale.
• Personal ownership and commitment to the team's success.
• Willingness to mentor other individuals and teams.

For an easy-to-print version of the information on this page, download the Definition of a High-Performing UBT tool.