TITLE : TEAM BUILDING: AN EXERCISE IN LEADERSHIP. REVISED ED.

PREFACE

In all economic systems, people must produce the goods and services that are essential to life. How well, and how much they produce depends on their knowledge, skill, creativity, commitment, attitude, the technology employed, and finally the quality of those who manage them.

Typically, people work in small groups which have common or related functions. Each person in such a group has an individual aspiration, level of skill, and attitude toward the task. Since people think, feel and respond according to their individuality; they sometimes do not consider the benefits of supporting and cooperating with others to achieve a common goal. This can be seen at the first practice of any junior high school athletic team. Some players have considerable talent; others are less skillful. Ultimately the group will not have much success until they are motivated to work toward a common goal. A skilled coach will be able to pool their talent and train them to play together compensating for individual strengths and weaknesses.

Similarly, in a work environment, the results achieved are seldom the outcome of one individual's talent. Each person is influenced by the attitude and action of coworkers and managers. If the influence of the work environment is positive, a person tends to be productive. The same is true for a group of workers. When the influence is negative, both individuals and groups tend to be less productive.

This book is devoted to teaching concepts which make work positive and productive. It contains principles by which a group can be transformed into a team. The concepts are easily understood but their application takes dedication and effort. Good Luck!

Robert B. Maddux