High-performing teams are the secret sauce behind innovation, growth, and long-term success. However, building one is far from simple. So, where should you begin?
Ever noticed how some teams just click? They collaborate effortlessly, move projects forward, and genuinely seem to enjoy working together. Meanwhile, others sit through endless meetings, nodding along, only to leave the room and do the complete opposite of what was agreed. Sound familiar?
Just the other day, I was in a leadership team meeting for a communications company. From the outside, it looked like a productive discussion – big priorities were being set for the next quarter. But as soon as the meeting ended, a few people started venting their frustrations, saying they didn’t agree with the direction and wouldn’t follow through. This kind of team politics – saying one thing in a meeting and doing another – is all too common. And let’s be honest, it’s a massive waste of time and energy.
Research from Aon shows that high-performing teams are 20% more productive and profitable because they’re engaged, motivated, and able to communicate and collaborate effectively. So, what makes a team truly high-performing? It boils down to six key ingredients:
1. Trust & Relationships
Trust is the foundation of any great team. Not just the ‘I assume you’ll do your job’ kind of trust, but the deep, unshakable belief that your teammates have your back. The kind where you can admit your biggest weaknesses without fear of them being used against you. High-performing teams push each other – not out of competition, but because they genuinely care about the team’s success. When trust is solid, people speak up, share ideas freely, and work together without second-guessing motives.
2. Shared Purpose, Values & Behaviours
Great teams know why they exist. They have a shared purpose that everyone is aligned on. And beyond that, they operate with a set of core values that guide their decisions and behaviours – even when no one is watching. These values aren’t just words on a poster; they shape how the team works together every day. When purpose, values, and behaviours are in sync, teams become more unified, motivated, and efficient.
3. Focus on Results
At the end of the day, results matter. High-performing teams don’t just talk about getting things done – they actually deliver. They set ambitious but achievable goals, create a culture of feedback, and recognise both individual and team achievements. A clear focus on outcomes keeps everyone aligned and drives real progress.
4. Strong Leadership & Transparent Communication
Strong leadership isn’t about barking orders – it’s about setting a clear direction, inspiring the team, and making sure everyone is on the same page. Open and honest communication is a game-changer. The best leaders are upfront about challenges, trade-offs, and expectations. And it’s a two-way street – when leaders actively listen to their teams, it creates a culture where people feel valued and engaged.
5. Role Clarity & Accountability
Ever been in a team where no one knows who’s responsible for what? It’s chaos. Role clarity eliminates confusion, minimises conflicts, and ensures everyone understands how they contribute to the bigger picture. And when accountability is in place, people take ownership of their work. No finger-pointing, no passing the buck – just a team of individuals holding themselves and each other responsible for achieving success.
6. Continuous Improvement & Adaptability
High-performing teams never settle. Even when they’re at the top of their game, they’re looking for ways to improve. They embrace learning, welcome feedback, and aren’t afraid to experiment – even if that means failing along the way. In a world that’s constantly evolving, teams that stay adaptable and open to change are the ones that thrive.
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The best teams don’t just happen – they’re built intentionally. They have a shared purpose, a relentless focus on results, and a commitment to behaviours that drive high performance. But here’s the thing: creating this kind of culture takes time, effort, and commitment from both leaders and team members.
By focusing on these six key characteristics, any organisation can build a team that not only performs at its best but also thrives in an ever-changing world. Who wouldn’t want to be part of that kind of team?