Accountable

In my team discussion we’ve covered trust, conflict, commitment and now we’re on to accountability.

Last week I wrote about a clear commitment after an adult discussion. I said clear was important as clarity on who, what, when matters when we focus on accountability. Team members not just the leader, need to hold each other accountable for their piece of the work. Think healthy peer pressure, Once a team is cohesive, no one wants to let the others down. Members need to be able to ask “how is that coming?… do you need any help?…” Of course, the leader must demonstrate s/he holds each member accountable but members are also responsible to each other especially if members’ work needs to happen consecutively - one’s work needs to be completed before another may start theirs or if each members’ work must be done simultaneously so they can come back together to make the next decision.

This leads me back to trust and the ability to have uncomfortable discussions. Humans shy away from confrontation and holding each other accountable may feel like a confrontation. That’s why trust is so important. Members need to know that they hold each other in high regard and each wants all to succeed individually and as a team. Members need to feel comfortable about saying, “I’m not sure I can complete my task without help.” AND then get help by members stepping up without ridicule or scorn. That’s a team.