High Performing Teams

High performing teams share some unique characteristics. I’ve been lucky enough to be a part of some elite teams. I’ve also faced the challenge of coaching some awful teams. Both experiences gave me a unique perspective on the make up of elite high performing teams.

Last week I spoke to the student-athletes at Salve Regina about the characteristics of high performing teams. Below is an outline of some of the most important elements that are crucial for high performance. Over the coming weeks I’ll expand on these points in more detail

High performing teams are highly conditional. They are not families. They are teams. There are conditions required for membership, and many of those conditions are very demanding. They are not for everyone.

High performing teams take ownership. They are not compliant. They are committed.

High performing teams have uncommon leadership. They are led internally, using a non-traditional model. Leadership comes from the middle.

High performing teams communicate directly and embrace confrontation. Communication can never be an issue. They are brutally honest and refuse to accept bad behavior.

High performing teams never make excuses. They Win Anyway.

High performing teams find great perspective. They have a particular, intentional attitude towards what happens to them. They have a relationship with losing.

High performing teams have an unbreakable trust. They create a safe environment where no one is afraid to fail.