In an effective team the work output is much greater than the sum of the same individuals working alone. If a team has a strong foundation then challenging experiences and situations can be worked through with greater success.
If there is a good team on farm then going to work is fun and something to look forward to and work becomes more than just a job, which helps retain staff longer.
Getting Started
- Communicate clear expectations to employees and ensure that you deliver on your promises.
- Insist that everyone on farm treats everyone else with respect and as they themselves would like to be treated. Make sure you behave to this standard at all times. Rules and guidelines, like a code of conduct, help people understand what is acceptable.
- Farm goals and targets can be shared to create a common goal so people strive for the same thing.
- Encourage and organise discussions/meetings/training/social events where everyone is present. Let people get to know each other, understand each other's role and responsibilties and how their different jobs fit together to make a complete puzzle or team. Utilise the skills and strengths of the team.
- Make your farm a place where people know they will be listened to and respected for their opinion and effort, no matter their position.
- Encourage teamwork by giving everyone the same level of information where possible about farm targets and goals and how you are tracking. This keeps everyone feeling in the loop and involved.
- Have fun together - arrange a team bbq, a day of fishing, a hike or a concert. Laughing together in a relaxed setting lets people see each other in a different light.
Remember to...
- Recognise and reward team success so employees are motivated to work together.
- Share the goals and targets of the farm so the team have something to work towards.
- Model great teamwork yourself by communicating what is going on and pitching in on some of the tough jobs.