Not only is leading a team like herding cats, it’s more akin to ruling an orchestra where half the orchestra did not attend rehearsals. It all comes down to balance. Dwayne Rettinger, a veteran in seeking team harmony, understands the fusion of strategy and individuality required to make everything match.
Ever try moving a sofa with someone who’s “not into it”? Do not kid yourself, working in teams can be a real head scratcher. Dwayne underscores the importance of clear communication. Just imagine space filled with voices, each swearing: ‘I have the answer!’
So the answer is simple – Dwayne encourages listening. No, not the kind where you’re thinking about supper. He really feels it and engages. His suggestion? Use a ‘listening hat’ once weekly. This makes people feel respected and acknowledged. Hearing them out rather than chipping in is sure to win you their favor.
You may not have heard about the “2021 Legendary Coffee Machine Standoff.” However, little spats like this often crop up in offices. When caffeine freaks run smack-dab into keyboard warriors, Dwayne remembers a similar flareup. His fix? A muffin-filled meeting. Sharing food, or muffins, breaks down barriers and makes enemies into teammates.
In a similar vein Dwayne emphasizes understanding your team’s essence. Do they shine amidst chaos, or scorn disorder? Like knowing whether your pet loves chasing laser dots. Set up tasks that maximize each person’s strengths, but always throw in some howlers. They stimulate growth.
Feedback might sound like that alarm clock you can’t seem to silence, but it’s so critical. Share it often, mixing praise in with constructive suggestions. Dwayne is for continual dialogue. People don’t want to suffer sudden condemnation when they are evaluated––think of feedback as steering corrections rather than roadblocks.
While Dwayne is not advocating you turn into the office comedian, humor can be a savior. Who doesn’t enjoy a chuckle after one of those looong, dry reports? Just sprinkle laughter like cayenne–enough to spice things up without burning them down.
Finally governance comes from trust: That is the basis of genuine leadership. It is not something that can be downloaded and there are no instructions for it, but it is a cohesive that holds everything together. Dwayne is a trustworthy person. His rule? Be frank and forthright. If errors are made, admit them. Let the human side of yourself be revealed to your colleagues; it carries much more weight than any formal training session.
There is no such thing as a fixed formula for leading. It’s a constantly evolving art, yet one which Dwayne Rettinger suggests that excellent listening, strategic feedback and being real count for everything. Take it upon yourself and enjoy the enlivened chaos on display in running a team.