Building A High Performing Team
Why do some teams perform better than others? What sets these teams apart from the rest?
Constructing a high-performing team is more than simply assembling a group of talented individuals with the right skills. It involves deliberate investment and development to generate the traits, behaviours, and best practices that help the individual to develop, and your business to succeed.
A landscape business requires a really collaborative working environment, and a high-performing team will stand out as the driver for greater business success. Not only will these teams more often than not exceed expectations, but they can bring a number of other advantages to the table - increased profitability being a key outcome !
If increased profit is something you’d like to have in your own business then this article is for you. We’ll cover the key benefits of a high-performing team and explore a number of tips around the process of building such a team.
Key benefits of a high-performing team:
The best performing teams are known for their efficiency in achieving goals by working together seamlessly and leveraging each other’s strengths. They complete tasks and projects more quickly and effectively - leading to increased productivity.
These teams often foster a culture of innovation, bringing diverse perspectives and creative solutions to various challenges. This approach can lead to the development of new ways of working or more efficient processes - positively impacting your bottom line.
A high-performing team will contribute to a more positive work environment. If your employees are part of such a team they are likely to be more engaged, satisfied, and motivated. This, in turn, can reduce staff turnover and your recruitment costs.
In a rapidly evolving business landscape, the ability to adapt to change is crucial. High-performing teams are often more agile and responsive, ensuring that your business can navigate challenges and capitalise on opportunities swiftly, which can positively affect profitability.
Building a high-performing team doesn’t happen overnight. It takes commitment and an investment in continuous growth and development. Here’s some ideas to help get you started.
A shared purpose
For your staff to connect with your business, a shared purpose is crucial. This is where the significance of your vision, values and goals comes to the forefront.
Leaders of high-performing teams understand their ‘why’ - the direction they are looking to take their business. They understand their ‘what’ - exactly what they do and who they do it for. They understand their ‘how’ - their core values and guiding principles. These all help a group of people function together as a team and work towards a common business goal.
These should be regularly communicated with your team - ensuring they are clear on your vision, goals and progress. Additionally, make time for one-to-one conversations to monitor individual staff progress, align your key priorities, and verify that their work is in line with your own vision, values and team goals.
Doing this not only encourages an individual sense of purpose, but also ensures that the team collectively pulls in the same direction to enhance your business performance.
Encourage decision making at all levels
High-performing teams are empowered to make decisions, take ownership of their tasks, and are not hesitant to introduce new ideas or solutions.
Rather than feeling apprehensive, the business owner acknowledges that encouraging employees to take initiative whenever they identify opportunities is the most effective way to achieve peak performance.
Nurturing a sense of ownership and accountability will cultivate a culture of trust and empowerment. Keep in mind that recognising these contributions regularly can help your employees to understand how their work is positively impacting the business. This leads us to…
Rewards & Recognition
Acknowledging and celebrating individual and team accomplishments is essential for cultivating and sustaining a high-performing team. Recognition and rewards will elevate morale and inspire team members to strive for excellence.
You should take time to regularly express your appreciation to recognise the efforts of your team. A quick one-to-one provides a great opportunity for you to show your appreciation - it doesn’t take much to say “thank-you”.
Keep in mind though that the business owner is not the sole participant in delivering recognition. You should encourage team members to acknowledge and appreciate each other's contributions, in turn developing a positive and engaging workplace at every level.
Employee growth & development
To consistently achieve exceptional results, you should develop a culture of continuous learning and improvement - creating team members that want to learn and grow.
When teams consistently expand their knowledge and learn from past errors, they become more effective, efficient, and innovative. And you can elevate team performance by investing in the growth and development of your employees.
Take the time to talk to your staff to identify their own development and training thoughts, and create a plan that addresses both the needs of your business, and the aims of the individual. Supporting their development will contribute to their increased motivation, empowerment, and better-equip them to excel in their role.
The landscape industry has a number of excellent resources available that are dedicated to providing courses that are tailored for the training of professional garden designers, landscapers, installers, and gardeners.
NS : Is there an opportunity to call these out? I’m thinking this would include TASK and The Landscape Academy. Any others ?
In summary
The strategic investment in building and maintaining a high-performing team is a pivotal driver for enhancing the overall profitability and sustainability of your business.
By deliberately placing focus on creating and nurturing a team that excels in efficiency, innovation, and collaboration, you are setting yourself up for success. And the positive impact can extend beyond immediate financial gain - it encompasses employee satisfaction, heightened creativity and adaptability.
By embracing the notion that a high-performing team is a valuable asset, businesses can fortify their business foundations, ensuring longevity and resilience in an ever-evolving business landscape.
Neil Stead Bio
Neil is a Business Consultant, Coach, Advisor & Sounding Board, who spent 30 years working for one of the UK's most-trusted brands.
In 2021 he set up Steady Consulting to work with the owners of small & medium sized businesses and help them to build a better business - for their customers, for their employees and, perhaps more importantly, for them!
He does this by providing expert, hands-on guidance, advice & support - tailored to the needs of the individual business.
