What is the role of a team leader in creating a high-performance team?

A strong leader is the cornerstone of building a high-performance team and has a direct impact on employee performance. A team with a high-performing culture typically produces better financial and non-financial results.

 

Here are the different roles of a leader in creating a high-performance team:

 

1. Selection of the right people for the job

 

Having the right people for the job is the foundation of a high-performance team. As a leader, you should know the strengths and weaknesses of your team members. This puts you in a position where you can use their strengths when delegating tasks. You should then guide them in fulfilling their roles to get optimum results.

2. Communicate the right values

 

Leaders who are committed to developing a high-performance culture should clarify and clearly communicate the right values needed to achieve this goal. These values include clear communication, innovation, collaboration, diverse thinking, and adaptability among others. You should set clear expectations regarding these values to reduce the chances of frustration and misunderstanding. It also gives team members a clear path for moving forward.

3. Formulate and implement strategies

 

Leaders should be hands-on in developing and implementing strategic roadmaps. Part of this role is to create SMART goals that align with the company's overall goals. As a leader, you should be able to drive your team into achieving these goals by consistently exercising the values you initially set.

 

4. Empower employees

 

While leaders do most of the decision-making, you should empower your team to share their thoughts, especially when making decisions that directly involve or affect them. Doing so will make them feel empowered, thereby increasing their engagement. Research shows that employee empowerment is associated with job satisfaction and stronger performance at work.

5. Reinforce positive behavior

 

Reinforcing positive behavior is an effective way to boost employee morale and productivity.  Recognition of their achievements helps them keep motivated and feel supported. Motivation helps employees thrive not just in your team but also within the organization.

6. Provide the necessary support for underperforming members

Dealing with a low performer can be challenging, but avoiding the problem may also result in more serious problems. It could damage a person's morale, increase the work burden on others, and negatively affect the productivity of your team. 

 

There are different ways to deal with underperforming members. It's good to start by finding the root cause of why that person did not deliver what is expected. Start an open discussion to identify your next action. Coaching sessions may help in many situations, followed by consistently monitoring progress. You should also take action when needed. Most importantly, reward your underperforming member for improvements in their performance.

If you want to develop the qualities of a leader that can drive a high-performance team, Change Works can help you. We offer leadership development services to help leaders in creating a high-performance culture.