An Approach to Discussing Team Agreements

[catherine.hayes]

This activity can be used at the end of the initial Team Agreement discussion to prioritize and then shorten a lengthy list of elements (ideal amount is 7-10). Perhaps only the Absolutes and Convictions are included in the Team Agreement; essentially “the Top 10”.

This activity can also be used to support and propel deeper discussion when a team would benefit from a return visit and conversation to fine tune the Team Agreement. It could connect well with TPIs in both Productivity (Goals & Strategies, Accountability, Decision Making) and Positivity (Values Diversity, Trust).

Use a flip chart or whiteboard to draw 3 concentric circles. Label and discuss the three in order, starting with the center, then moving outward. Use a different color for each as you label, define and describe.

Center (inside, smallest) circle: ABSOLUTES
What values and behaviors are non-negotiable for this team? What would the team agree they “would always” or “would never” do or be?
For example, Absolutes might include:
• This team would never betray the trust of fellow members by breaking confidentiality.
• Members of this team are committed to attending all scheduled training and coaching sessions, and if sickness or emergency will prevent our participation, the member will communicate this immediately to the Team Leader.
• Members of this team will value all voices and perspectives in this team, diligently giving equal time and attention to each member in every discussion.

Next (middle, medium) circle: CONVICTIONS
What values and behaviors are strongly-held by this team? What items would the team agree have the strongest filter for prioritization and decision making for this team?
For example, Convictions might include:
• Members of this team will prioritize resolving personal conflicts and misunderstandings privately and one-on-one outside the team meetings, enlisting an objective and mutually-respected colleague to assist, as necessary.
• In this team, we will not withhold valuable information or innovative ideas that could be pivotal or propelling to our mission.
• “A win for one is a win for all” in this team.
• Any of the Absolutes examples above, if they are seen to be “strong guidelines” but not “always/never” elements.
• Any of the Preferences below, if they are seen to be of greater benefit as best practices than simply “good ideas” or welcome guidelines.

Third (outside, largest) circle: PREFERENCES
What values and behaviors are respected but held loosely by this team? What would the team agree are items on which there is the most flexibility and willingness to compromise for this team?
For example, Preferences might include:
• We will be a team that speaks positively and respectfully of our members to others across our organization/company.
• Members of this team will make regular attempts to interact with each other on a personal and informal level, knowing that understanding and empathy through relationship-building creates a stronger foundation and efficacy in accomplishing our mission.
• We agree to keep watch for communications internal to our respective teams that, if shared with members of this team, would be of great value and help for cross-functional collaboration and synergies.
• Any of the Convictions examples above, if they were felt to be valued but not universally applicable values or behaviors for all members of this team.

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