In increasing the motivation, satisfaction and performance of a team, communication is an important tool. Communication should be two-way where the team members are able to communicate between themselves as well as with the team leaders and the team leader is able to communicate with the team members. The promotion of open dialogue among the team members through team meetings as well as in general project communication allows each of the team members to provide their input into the project. This also helps to recognize the diversity of the skills and abilities of the team members since each of them will be able to give the input which best complements their abilities which will leads to increased respect between the team members as they accept all constructive inputs given. Communication will also help to build good camaraderie in the team by promoting a participative environment where the team members feel they are a crucial part of the team and this will help to build a sense of team loyalty Flannes & Levin, 2005()
The team leaders should also focus on developing a team culture which will foster a positive outlook on the team and thus lead to increased motivation, satisfaction and performance of the team members. The first strategy that can be applied is the preparation of the team charter. This will contain a clear definition of the team's needs, goals and objectives, common procedures, deliverables and the criteria for success. This will enable the team members to understand the common goals...
The second strategy is to define the common team processes through which the goals and objectives previously defined will be achieved. This includes defining the standards of the team and what the performance expectations are. This ensures that the team members are aware of how team performance is identified and measured as well as metrics for measurement of individual performance in the team. The last strategy in the development of a team culture is to develop a motivational environment upon which the unique needs of each team member are identified and appreciated. This involves the rewarding of team performance and individual performance. Rewards can be either monetary or nonmonetary. Teams and team members will be rewarded by being awarded bonuses based on their performance and will also receive formal awards such as praise, recognition and promotion. This will serve to motivate team members towards improving their performance Rad & Levin, 2003()
References
Flannes, S.W., & Levin, G. (2005). Essential people skills for project managers. Vienna, VA: Management Concepts, Inc.
Rad, P.F., & Levin, G. (2003). Achieving project management success using virtual teams. Boca Raton, FL: J. Ross Publishing, Inc.
Simpson, W.F., Gould, P.E., Hardy, P.J., & Lindahl, K.J. (1997). Essentials of supervision. Malvern, PA: Insurance Institute of America.
