Introduction
The forming stage of a group is an important phase when beginning work since basic communication patterns originate at this level. Team leaders’ capabilities are not limited to the desire to achieve specific goals, and different functions are assigned to those who organize the joint work process, for example, the establishment of interaction among members or the search for strategies for activities. However, some complications may arise, which can adversely affect performance. An ability to overcome obstacles and organize work activity testifies to effective leadership work in the group and the proper process of its formation.
Criteria for the Forming Stage
As the main criteria influencing the formation of the team, it is possible to note the quality of participants’ communication skills, the availability of a competent work strategy, and appropriate planning. According to Levi (2016), “group members get to know one another and learn how to operate as a group” (p. 45). An ability to establish effective interaction among different people is a valuable component of the work process, and if this requirement is met, further activities will likely be successful and productive.
Potential Obstacles
All the members of the same team, including leaders and ordinary performers, may face different obstacles in the process of teamwork. As Levi (2016) notes, two primary challenges imply dealing with the nature of a specific assignment and managing problems when solving them. Team leaders, for example, may face the need to establish interaction among people since effective cooperation is not always achieved for various reasons – different views, diversity, participants’ ambitions, and, consequently, conflicts.
Group members themselves may also be involved in some difficulties. One of the obstacles for them is the realization of individual potential in a competitive environment. Moreover, various complexities can arise while establishing communication with colleagues. All these obstacles are to be overcome timely so as not to disrupt the effectiveness of teamwork.
Ways of Addressing Obstacles
To overcome the aforementioned obstacles, it is necessary to prepare in advance. Although Levi (2016) remarks that “little work occurs” at the forming stage,” it is better to be prepared advance not to allow misunderstanding (p. 45). The organization of joint work involves cohesion, and it is crucial to ensure that all the members of the group interact well with one another and do not experience any inconvenience. For this purpose, communication training can be conducted and to determine whether group participants are satisfied with their working conditions. This measure may help to obtain essential information and to reach competent conclusions regarding further work.
Effective Leader’s Characteristics
One of the main qualities that a leader should have, particularly at the stage of early group development, is a high level of communication. It is impossible to inspire people without any desire to motivate them and find an individual approach. Also, another valuable feature is the knowledge of the principles of conflict management. Despite the joint process of achieving goals, misunderstandings are possible. If a team leader can suppress any manifestations of personal dislike and conduct work aimed at improving the situation in the team, it characterizes him or her as a competent specialist.
Conclusion
Overcoming challenges and efficient work organization are the qualities of a competent leader since at an early stage of group formation, different complications may arise. Misunderstanding, conflicts, and the lack of sufficient motivation are obstacles to achieving goals. Nevertheless, the timely resolution of these difficulties allows maintaining high productivity and a good level of interaction, which characterizes a particular team as a coherent and organized professional team.
Reference
Levi, D. (2016). Group dynamics for teams (5th ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.