Planning Function

TEAM COMMUNICATION

Team Communication

Thesis

Team communication is an essential activity that should involve certain elements that

will prove to be successful in obtaining goals and objectives. On may ask several

questions to determine key elements of team communication. What key aspects are

necessary in communicating in a team environment? Why is it important to have

effective communication among the team? What other requirements are involved in

building sound team communication? In developing answers to such questions, this

paper will illustrate the importance and effectiveness of team communication.

Team Communication

Some key aspects that are necessary in communicating in a team environment

includes creating a shared understanding and utilizing other resources that are available.

Communication is defined as the process by which information is exchanged between

individuals through a common system of symbols, signs, or behavior. As individuals try

to convey their thoughts and ideas to other members of the team, consideration must be

given to any outside barriers that may hinder one’s understanding. Being in a virtual

environment, it is impossible for each team member to meet face to face. The team must

use other methods of communicating, such as e-mail, phone, video conference, or forum

boards. Each team member should identify their strengths and weaknesses, as it relates to

the team’s mission. Team members must trust each other by having good

communication. This will assist the team in working towards its goals.

It is important to have communication among the team as this will help

individuals within the organization succeed by enhancing leadership, setting goals, and

inspiring higher performance. It is evident that the key to success of a team will be

contingent upon the strength of its leadership. A group leader, either appointed or

emerges, usually assigns tasks to each member of the team. If there are any questions

pertaining to the mission of the team, it becomes the responsibility of the leader to

address such concerns and to keep all members informed. Communication is needed to

define the goals of the team and ensure the overall goal is understood by all members of

the team. Effective leadership will inspire and motivate team members through guidance.

In building sound team communication, other requirements are necessary which

include identifying group task roles and individual roles. As a team strives to reach its

objectives, they will certainly encounter some problems along the way. In an effort to

accomplish the group’s objectives through the facilitation of problem solving, it will

become necessary to identify tasks that should be fulfilled as a group. For instance,

members of the group should discuss among themselves periodically the status of their

progress. This should include discussions on any deviations from the agreed-upon

directions or goals, as well as addressing concerns on the direction the group is taking.

At some point, there will be the need for someone to energize the members. To

stimulate the group to action or decision requires the creativity of its members.

Sometimes