03/28/04

At the organizational level, a coach can be to a team what she is to a single individual. Understanding and sharing the dynamics of the group, helping each member of the team to better understand him or her self, as well as all the others. The way disparate talents interact creates incredible energy. How can it be harnessed in the most positive and constructive way? That is what a teambuilding consultant is all about, regardless of the team's task, goals, or mission.

In most assignments, the need for every team member to understand the strengths each brings to the task, and how they will best collaborate with one another is as important as having a clear understanding of the specific goals and responsibilities of the team.

My favorite tool, to cut to the chase, is the Birkman Method^®. Sharing insights with each participant, and particularly to provide expectations as to how interactions will be driven by individual needs and stress behaviors shines a bright light on how the energy of the group will be maximized.