Who's on Your Bus? Building a Team for Greatness

I still remember the exhilarating yet overwhelming feeling of building my organization from the ground up. It wasn't just about having a great idea; it was about assembling the perfect crew to navigate the unknown. Just like Jim Collins emphasizes in his book, Good to Great, I realized that having the right people on the bus was paramount to success.

Building Your Dream Team from Scratch

Think of your mission as the destination. Now, visualize the roles needed to get you there. It wasn't just about the initial launch – I had to consider the long-term journey. Who would be the strategic visionary, steering the bus with a clear roadmap? Who were the foundational builders, laying the groundwork for future growth? And of course, I needed to identify the adaptable problem-solvers who could troubleshoot challenges and keep us moving forward.

Constant Evaluation: The Seats Evolve

The beauty (and challenge) of building a team from scratch is the constant state of flux. The initial team that excelled at launching the product might not be the same team needed to scale it. Throughout our journey, I had to continuously assess the skills and temperament needed on the "bus."

Refocusing for Growth: New Seats, New Skills

This meant embracing change. Perhaps someone who was instrumental in the initial development phase would be better suited for a more analytical role as we scaled our operations. It's not about people being bad at their jobs; it's about recognizing that their talents could be even more impactful in a different capacity.

Taking Over the Wheel: Evaluating Your Existing Team

The same principle applies when inheriting a team. Just like with a new company, it's crucial to assess the current occupants of the "bus." Are they the right people for the current mission and future goals? Taking the time to understand each team member's strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations allows you to identify potential misalignments.

The Power of Reshuffling: Emma's Story

Let's imagine Emma, who joined your team four years ago. Back then, her skillset perfectly matched a specific role. However, over time, she's developed a strong analytical mind. While she excels at her current tasks, you discover her true passion lies in communication. Is there a seat on your "bus" that leverages her communication skills and complements the team's goals?

Sometimes, the Right Bus is a Different Bus

Honest conversations are key. Perhaps there's no perfect fit within your current team. In that case, helping Emma find a new opportunity that aligns with her passion benefits both her and the team. However, don't underestimate the power of internal reshuffling. Maybe there's another team member whose skillset would complement Emma's communication abilities, creating a win-win situation for everyone.

Building a Winning Team Takes Time

Remember, building a winning team is an ongoing process. It requires constant evaluation, open communication, and the willingness to make adjustments. By focusing on finding the right people, placing them in the right roles, and fostering a culture of growth, you'll be well on your way to driving your team (and your bus) towards greatness.

Ready to build your dream team? Let's chat how coaching can help you to reflect and find the winning formula!