What Great Teams Understand
I’ve worked across multiple teams over the years. The highest-performing ones share intangible traits rather than specific methodologies or tools. Some teams with talented members and modern technology struggle with decision-making; others deliver consistently and rapidly.
Here are four traits I keep seeing in the best teams.
They Commit Fully to Decisions They Disagree With
There’s a difference between genuine commitment and mere resignation. True commitment means putting all your energy into an approach you wouldn’t have chosen and actively trying to make it succeed.
I once worked with an engineer who passionately argued against an architectural change. When the decision went against him, he didn’t sulk or half-commit. He became its strongest advocate, even finding improvements to strengthen the approach. That’s the kind of commitment that makes teams exceptional.
They Separate Ideas from Identity
High-performing teams critique approaches without making feedback personal. Members can deliver direct criticism without sounding like personal attacks, and receivers can accept feedback without feeling threatened. This skill set enables faster problem-solving by preventing emotional management from consuming team energy.
They’re Pragmatic Without Being Careless
These teams balance theoretical optimization with practical delivery. They prefer a good solution today over a perfect one later, while avoiding shortcuts that compromise thinking. They make quick, informed decisions rather than slow, perfect ones.
They Have Informed Captains
Every decision requires a single owner with context, authority, and accountability. These leaders gather input and genuinely consider alternatives before deciding. This approach works only when the first three traits are established.
The Uncomfortable Truth
These traits cannot be implemented through process or mandates. Culture develops through individual interactions. Great teams aren’t simply about hiring talented people—it’s about what happens between them.
I’m still learning how to build these types of teams. I suspect I always will be.