This post originally appeared on theSandglaz blog.
Yet this is not enough to have a highly effective team.
Here are some of the characteristics of a highly effective team, according to scientific research.
In fact, studies have shown that emotional intelligence is more important than the IQ of each team member.
It turns out that if individuals are socially aware, the whole group puts in better quality work.
The groups were then evaluated on their performance, and given a group intelligence score.
So when it comes to team work, social sensitivity trumps sheer intelligence alone.
As a society, many often think of extroverts as doers, go-getters, superior team-players.
Scientists call this ashared mental model.
Imagine an emergency response team to get a better picture of this.
This will help each team member understand how their part supports the bigger picture.
It will also help each team member understand and respect the work of other team members.
They Communicate Proactively
Communication is obviously important, but what really matters isproactivecommunication.
Proactive communication can be materialized in four ways:
Team members provide information before being asked.
They provide support and assistance before being asked.
They take team initiative by providing guidance and making suggestions to other team members.
They provide updates, creating situational awareness for other team members.
Essentially,proactive communicationis what enables the same mental model.
Finally, a highly effective team will stand the test of time.
They will stick together through thick and thin.
They will know how to celebrate achievements and how to readjust their efforts after defeats.
But all of this starts with this handful of characteristics of a highly effective team.
Image byMayrum(Shutterstock).
Want to see your work on Lifehacker?
