Team Building Survey Reveals Clues, Not Answers

Team Building Question:

I'm a manager of a team of 20 people and here is my question. At this year's survey, the results show that my team members don't think their colleagues (from my section and from other sections) often act on their own initiative. I would like to know what are the best ways to encourage team members to take initiative. Also, are you aware of any road blocks that would prevent employees to take initiative ?

The Team Doc Says?

Definition of scope, boundaries, authority and autonomy are a must for people to take initiative. Interestingly, during surveys people many times perceive that it's the other person who is not taking enough initiative - never themselves. Yet if you received a lot of answers like this on the survey, there may be another underlying problem. You'll have to dig to find out what that is.

I recommend that you meet with your team to discuss the results of the survey and ask for their suggestions. That's one way to "get some initiative going!" Next meet with each team member individually to discuss their personal goals and any road blocks they are encountering.

Open (and often) communication with your team will help you identify what may be causing this type of survey response.

Denise O'Berry (aka 'Team Doc') provides tools, tips and advice to help organizations build better teams. Find out more at http://www.askteamdoc.com

efficient cleaning crew Lake Forest ..
In The News:

Washington court rules automated license plate reader images are public records, even when stored by vendors like Flock Safety, setting precedent for transparency.
Fake airline texts claiming flight cancellations are targeting travelers with convincing scams. Learn how cybercriminals steal personal data and credit card info.
Discover how iOS 26's new Adaptive Power feature automatically extends iPhone battery life by learning your usage patterns and adjusting performance intelligently.
New TikTok malware campaign tricks users into running PowerShell commands that download Aura Stealer, which steals credentials and authentication tokens.
Gaia Family offers fixed upfront pricing for IVF cycles with unlimited embryo transfers and financial protection, partnering with over 100 U.S. fertility clinics.
The Jetsons Act aims to position Pennsylvania as a leader in advanced air mobility by establishing regulations for hybrid ground-air vehicles.
Fake Geek Squad invoice emails are targeting users with convincing charges and urgent phone numbers to steal personal information and money.
Fox News Digital's artificial intelligence newsletter digs into a robot in Russia that faceplanted, George Clooney's alarm and OpenAI's rivalry with the New York Times.
Major data breach at Conduent exposes personal information of 10+ million people. Government contractor hit by cyberattack affecting Medicaid, child support systems.
Texas startup Janta Power raises $5.5M for innovative vertical solar towers that generate 50% more energy than traditional panels while using just one-third the land.
NASA's twin ESCAPADE spacecraft launched aboard Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket Thursday afternoon from Cape Canaveral, beginning their journey to Mars with arrival expected in 2027.
Learn how to set email reminders on iPhone and Android so you never forget to reply again. Simple built-in features help you stay organized and on top of messages.
Discover how Apple's passkeys revolutionize Mac security by replacing vulnerable passwords with biometric authentication and encryption for ultimate protection.
New survey reveals 78% of parents fear AI scams targeting their kids, yet nearly half haven't discussed these threats. Learn why this dangerous gap exists.
Chrome now autofills passport and driver's license info automatically. Google's latest browser update adds official document support with encryption and user control.
Scammers impersonate Department of Veterans Affairs employees claiming veterans owe money, but real VA communications only direct to VA.gov or official channels.
The AltoVolo Sigma hybrid-electric aircraft flies 500 miles at 220 mph while operating 80% quieter than helicopters, featuring safety systems and compact design.
Google search scam alert: fake customer service numbers can give scammers remote control of your phone. Learn how to spot these traps and protect yourself.
Electric vehicles overtake gas cars in total CO2 savings after just two years of driving, with emissions benefits growing over time as power grids get cleaner.
Louvre Museum reportedly used "Louvre" as password for surveillance system during $100M jewel heist. Learn how weak passwords put even famous institutions at risk.
Bipartisan AI jobs bill from Sens. Hawley and Warner would require companies to report AI-related layoffs and hiring to Department of Labor quarterly.
Joe A. from Shelton, Connecticut, lost $228,000 to a ZAP Solutions cryptocurrency investment scam after his divorce, highlighting rising online fraud.
AI-powered autonomous trucks from Waabi and Volvo target U.S. freight driver shortage with Level 4 self-driving technology and NVIDIA computing platform integration.
Survive flight disruptions with expert travel tips: Book early morning flights, download airline apps and know your refund rights during service cuts.
Apple's iOS 26.1 update delivers major security fixes, performance boosts and enhanced privacy controls for your iPhone. Discover why updating now protects your data.

Seven Keys to More Effectively Leading Teams

Maybe you find yourself in a new team environment and... Read More

Listening Between the Lines

Have you seen the tee-shirt with the slogan, "Talk to... Read More

Whats the Secret Ingredient That Turns Groups into Teams?

What's the Secret Ingredient That Turns Groups into Teams? Working... Read More

Finding The Leader Within (Keys To Zen Leadership)

Most believe that leadership is an innate quality that some... Read More

Conflict Is Cool

Having experienced more than my fair share of conflict over... Read More

Downsizing Your Team

Team Building Question:Our office has recently learned that about 20... Read More

How to Turn Idea Squashers into Possibilities

Managing a small business continues to become more challenging. However,... Read More

How to Align Your Team through Change

Eight Principles for Purposeful AlignmentEffective teamwork requires individual members of... Read More

The Team Process

We live in very progressive times, one only has to... Read More

Aligning Corporate Teams

Picture yourself entering a corporate meeting, team meeting, or business... Read More

You, Your Team, and Your Coach

The grand purpose of coaching is to help your managers,... Read More

Build a Great Team - Ten Easy Ways to Start!

It's all about focusing on where the best value in... Read More

Intercultural Team Building

Internal business structures have been radically transformed over the past... Read More

Joy and Laughter in the Workplace: Lessons From the Land of OZ

Turbulent TwistersYou've read about it in the headlines and experienced... Read More

How Leaders Unlock Potential in Teams

Leaders are faced with unlocking the potential in the people... Read More

Motivate People with Feedback

Someone once said - "Feedback is the breakfast of champions."... Read More

Team Journaling

The very effective tool of keeping a journal can be... Read More

Always In Motion Is The Future

It's the summer of 1973, and a young film director... Read More

Resolving Workplace Conflict: 4 Ways to a Win-Win Solution

The effects of conflict in the workplace are widespread and... Read More

Brainstorm

Ever lost for ideas while working in a group? One... Read More

Putting Your Expert Team Together

As a freelance writer myself, I know how important it... Read More

Effective Brainstorming

Most managers simply herd some people in a room with... Read More

12 Tips and Reminders for Team Members To Enjoy Their Team Experiences More

12 Tips and Reminders for Team Members To Enjoy Their... Read More

Mastermind Team: Do You Have One?

The key to life is to be around the people... Read More

Top 7 Ways to Motivate Your Team

1. Involve them. Many employees want to be involved in... Read More

green cleaning service Deerfield ..