Team Building and Individual Motivation

Groups and Team Motivation

Groups and Teamwork Essays

First Essay: Analysis of the Differences between Informal and Formal Groups

There are significant differences in the norms, values, strategy and structure of formal vs. informal groups across the communication, strategic planning and problem-solving dimensions of how each type operates. Formal groups are more oriented towards hierarchical and clear lines of authority, including the use of formalized recognition and nonmonetary rewards for exceptional sacrifice and performance on behalf of the group (Meyer, Becker, Vandenberghe, 2004). Formal groups also concentrate more on the specific roles of each member, often clarifying their assignments and expectations. There is significantly more rigidity across the strategic planning and problem solving dimensions of formal groups as well. Communications tends to be more structured and focused on accountability, auditability and traceability over immediacy and quickness.

Informal groups also have specific assignments and requirements for each of their members, however these expectations are communicated in a variety of indirect and often contextually oriented ways. For example in informal groups, strategic planning and problem solving are more focused on collaboration and communication over clear lines of authority being relied one exclusively. The focus on how to gain greater consensus through collaboration and shared knowledge is more important than relying purely on command-and-control organizational structures. As a result informal groups will often take longer to make decisions, yet have much greater loyalty from members (Meyer, Becker, Vandenberghe, 2004).

Second Essay: Develop an Exercise to Create a Team

In defining an activity or exercise to create a team needs to take into account their diverse needs and interests while galvanizing them to a common goal or vision. Team dynamics need to concentrate on enabling a high level of communication, collaboration and shared decision making. Above all, the team making process needs to center on creating a unified approach to solving a problem. The best teams are centered on a vision or mission of solving a particularly complex problem or challenge (Meyer, Becker, Vandenberghe, 2004). Team dynamics need to consist of creating shared vision and trust to enable the greatest levels of accomplishment possible.

Third Essay: Discuss Employee Motivation