The Importance Of Managing Groups And Teams

Managing groups and teams is a task that requires skill and training. Although leaders and managers differ in some ways, one commodity that they share is: focusing on achieving the goal. Managing and leading are two different ways to organize people, in which managers control and direct, while leaders set a direction and vision for the group or team. An effective leader who can be trusted by his/her team members will likely encourage them to be productive and creative in accomplishing their overall goal. Building a relationship with the team is one of the most important aspect of team leadership. To be an effective leader one must: “focus on the goal, ensure a collaborative climate, build confidence, demonstrate sufficient technical knowledge, set priorities and manage performance”. (Wikibook, 2012)

Managers perform their duties by planning, organizing, leading controlling, and directing the members of a group or organization. Managers are best described as, “less charismatic individuals who are focused solely on getting things done”. (Wikibook, 2012) Overall, managing teams and groups is a process that

Starting off the course with team cohesion gave me a better perspective of how teams are formed and the way they should interact. Communication is the first factor needed for team cohesion, and is essential to creating an environment that energizes and encourages employees to accomplish tasks by promoting genuine openness. Other factors such as commitment and unity of a common goal are needed to form team cohesion as well. The role of a manager with team cohesion is important and there must be boundaries set to ensure that the team is doing the work and not management. Setting the goal, facilitating a good work environment, and training team members are the essentials needed for management in team cohesion. (Wikibook,