The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable, 20th Anniversary Edition

The Five Dysfunctions of a Team Model

Like it or not, all teams are potentially dysfunctional. This is inevitable because they are made up of fallible, imperfect human beings. From the basketball coach to the executive suite, politics and confusion are more the rule than the exception. However, facing dysfunction and focusing on teamwork is particularly critical at the top of an organization because the executive team sets the tone for how all employees work with one another. Fortunately, there is hope. Counter to conventional wisdom, the causes of dysfunction are both identifiable and curable. The first step toward reducing politics and confusion within your team is to understand that there are five dysfunctions to contend with, and address each that applies, one by one.

DYSFUNCTION #1: ABSENCE OF TRUST

The fear of being vulnerable with team members prevents building of trust within the team.

DYSFUNCTION #2: FEAR OF CONFLICT

The desire to preserve artificial harmony stifles the occurrence of productive, ideological conflict.

DYSFUNCTION #3: LACK OF COMMITMENT

The lack of clarity or buy-in prevents team members from making decisions they will stick to.

DYSFUNCTION #4: AVOIDANCE OF ACCOUNTABILITY

The need to avoid interpersonal discomfort prevents team members from holding one another accountable for their behaviors and performance.

DYSFUNCTION #5: INATTENTION TO RESULTS

The pursuit of individual goals and personal status erodes the focus on collective success.