Building High Performing Teams

Simple steps for Not For Profit Leaders to help Build High Performing Teams

The success of any organisation depends heavily on the performance of its teams. For not for profit organisations and NGOs, building and developing high performing teams is crucial to achieving their mission and goals.

High performing teams are those that consistently deliver excellent results and are highly productive, motivated, and committed. They work together towards a common goal, share a vision, and are supportive of each other.

We will explore the strategies that not for profit organisations and NGOs can use to build and develop high performing teams.

Create a clear vision and mission statement

The first step in building and developing high performing teams is to create a clear and compelling vision and mission statement. This statement should define the purpose of the organisation and the values that guide its activities. It should be communicated clearly and consistently to all members of the team, so that everyone understands the direction in which the organisation is moving. When team members share a common vision, they are more likely to work together towards a common goal.

Recruit the right people

Recruiting the right people is critical to building a high performing team. Not for profit organisations and NGOs should look for individuals who are passionate about the organisation’s mission, have the necessary skills and experience, and share the organisation’s values. It is essential to have a recruitment process that is fair, transparent, and unbiased. Organisations should also prioritise diversity and inclusion when recruiting, as it leads to a more creative and innovative team.

Foster open communication

Open communication is vital in building and developing high performing teams. Members should be encouraged to share their ideas, thoughts, and concerns. Regular team meetings should be held to discuss progress, obstacles, and strategies for moving forward. Organisations should also ensure that they have effective communication channels, such as email, messaging apps, and video conferencing tools, to facilitate easy communication.

Set clear goals and expectations

Setting clear goals and expectations is essential for team performance. Goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Team members should be aware of what is expected of them and what they are working towards. They should also be held accountable for their actions and outcomes. Clear goals and expectations help to keep team members focused and motivated.

Develop team building activities

Team building activities help to strengthen the relationships between team members, increase trust and collaboration, and improve overall team performance. Not for profit organisations and NGOs should develop team building activities that are engaging, fun, and challenging. These activities can be both on-site and off-site and can include activities such as team building games, group outings, and retreats.

Provide training and development opportunities

Providing training and development opportunities is crucial for building and developing high performing teams. Not for profit organisations and NGOs should invest in their team members’ professional development, offering opportunities for training, workshops, and mentorship. This will not only improve their skills and knowledge but also increase their motivation and job satisfaction.

Foster a positive work environment

Creating a positive work environment is essential for building and developing high performing teams. This includes having a safe and comfortable physical workspace, offering competitive compensation and benefits, and promoting a healthy work-life balance. Not for profit organisations and NGOs should also prioritise the well-being of their team members, providing resources for mental and physical health.

Recognize and reward performance

Recognizing and rewarding performance is essential for maintaining team motivation and morale. Not for profit organisations and NGOs should have a system in place for recognizing and rewarding exceptional performance. This can include bonuses, promotions, and public recognition. Celebrating team members’ successes also helps to foster a sense of pride and belonging within the team.

Building and developing high performing teams is a continuous process that requires ongoing effort and commitment. If you’d like advice or support in developing your team to increase productivity, accountability and performance reach out to our team!

 

Rob Gallacher – Director
PeopleStart Human Resources