Introduction to Team Dynamics and Why They Matter

When a new project is launched, team dynamics are generally given little consideration. There seems to be a general assumption that once a team is put together, they will automatically gel—and that’s true, to some extent.

But this implies that no extra effort is required. Dynamics, however, require attention and effort in order to be optimised.

Every aspect of a team’s operation is influenced by team dynamics. These intangible intricacies of how people behave, relate, and communicate in a group context may either set a project up for success or make it feel like a losing battle.

What matters is that you understand these underlying dynamics and how you and your team can positively alter them so that your projects are as efficient and productive as possible—and even pleasurable.

Communicate with others

• Start a conversation about it if you’re unsure how to assess and enhance your team’s chemistry.

• Engage your team in a discussion about what’s working, what isn’t, and where people feel stuck.

• Recognise individual skills and styles, and consider how to best apply them.

Encourage others to share—and to listen—to help tear down barriers and open lines of communication. Then you’ll be able to spot the unseen forces at work on your team and assist in moving your project forwards.

The key takeaways

Team dynamics are the unseen forces at work on your team and can make or break a project.

Engage your team in a discussion about what’s working, what isn’t, and where people feel stuck.

Recognise individual skills and styles, and consider how to best apply them.