ABSTRACT
In the team environment the manager is a team builder, a creator of strategies to generate staff member commitment to the team. Team building involves getting each staff member to feel a sense of belonging and ownership in what they are doing as a team. Building the team begins with the manager communicating the connection between the team members' self-interest and the vision of both the company and the manager. Ensuring that action follows vision requires the manager to establish the organizational and operational standards of the team. The standards include team composition, scope of team and individual responsibilities, performance expectations, performance appraisal, timelines, and resources. The role of a "team facilitator" or "leader" consists of leading team discussions and group processes so that individuals learn, and team members feel that the experience is positive and worthwhile. Empowerment means encouraging innovation and allowing team members to implement their ideas.
