Team Development: How to Hit a Homerun!
By Amanda Magnus, SHRM SCP, Human Resource Generalist
What do excitement, conflict, engagement, and consistent performance all have in common? These are all characteristics of Tuckman’s Model of Team Dynamics. Do you ever see a team that works great together and wonder how they got to that point? Chances are it wasn’t instant but rather took time, keen observation, and intentional strategy. Tuckman proposed the idea that newly formed teams must go through a series of phases of development to successfully work towards a common goal.
I like to think of these phases in terms of running the bases in baseball. Forming – 1st base, storming – 2nd base, norming – 3rd base, and performing – 4th base are the names of each phase, and they involve what may seem like many ups and downs to achieve a common goal. Let’s take a closer look at what each of these phases means.
Phase 1: Forming (First Base)
Much like getting to first base in a game of baseball, the forming phase is just the beginning of the journey to making it to home plate. You made it to first, your adrenaline is pumping, and you are eager for the next batter to come and help advance you to second!
This stage is when team members are displaying eagerness, socializing with each other, and tending to stick to safe topics. Feeling out the dynamic, being agreeable, and avoiding conflict are common markers of the Forming phase. During this phase, team members are also often unclear about how they fit in.
A strategy for working through the awkwardness of this stage is for a leader of the group to be defined. The leader can make sure to facilitate introductions, set clear expectations, and provide a big-picture view, making it easier for other team members to follow along.
Phase 2: Storming (2nd Base)
Whew! You made it second and now the pressure is on. Tensions are rising as the team and the crowd wait to see if you can make it to 3rd.
While the storming phase may sound intimidating it is an important step for teams to grow, find solutions, and deliver results. You know what they say…life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, but rather learning to dance in the rain! During this phase team members become more comfortable with one another, so naturally conflict may arise with differeing opinions, competition, and high emotions.
Some strategies for working through this stage are to ask for feedback from the team, and also provide feedback. Remember that this conflict is healthy conflict and can lead to amazing things. Walk towards the conflict by identifying issues and then facilitating a resolution. It is also important to build trust during this phase.
Phase 3: Norming (3rd Base)
The sun is out, and the storm has passed! You’ve made it to third base and you’re starting to see the end goal in sight. Home plate is within reach, and you’ve made it to the home stretch.
The norming phase is when things start to click, and the team is hitting their stride. Members are engaged, goals are well understood, and the team is developing cohesion.
To capitalize on the great strides the team has taken, be sure to provide individual and team recognition, find learning opportunities, and provide constructive feedback when possible.
Phase 4: Performing (Home Plate)
You’ve rounded the bases and reached home plate…team performance is what you’ve been working toward! This stage is when you can really see your efforts come to fruition. The team is running like a well-oiled machine and is highly motivated, deliverables are being produced, and there is consistent performance.
Some strategies for this phase are to celebrate successes and encourage collective problem solving. As a leader try not to intervene too much and guide the team to work through decision making and problems.
There you have it… the 4 stages of Tuckman’s Model of Team Dynamics! Now, the next time you have a team to organize, remember these phases of development. Don’t get discouraged when conflicts arise and keep looking forward. While we are all eager to reach our goal, it’s important to appreciate the journey to get there. Just like in baseball, players don’t hit a home run every time or even make it around the bases. But that doesn’t mean they stop trying. They keep looking forward and work together as a team. Recognize the achievements in each phase and be sure to recognize your team members as well!
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