Success Thought of the Day — 10/1/18: Invest in Relationships

Summary

James emphasizes the importance of investing time in shared activities to build trust and deepen relationships within teams, citing that understanding each other beyond work fosters stronger connections and more effective collaboration.

Abstract

In the article titled "Invest in Relationships: Success Thought of the Day — 10/1/18," James reflects on the significance of nurturing relationships, particularly for team leaders. He suggests that while daily challenges can contribute to bonding, intentional time spent in enjoyable shared activities away from work is crucial for creating deeper relationships. Trust is a key outcome of this depth, as it allows individuals to better understand each other's strengths, qualities, and behaviors. James acknowledges the value of personality and behavioral assessments like Myers Briggs, DISC, and PRINT, but insists that personal interaction and listening are irreplaceable for truly understanding team members. He reminisces about his experiences at JPMorgan Chase, where team-building exercises and informal gatherings like BBQs and bowling nights helped his team connect on a more personal level. James concludes by encouraging readers to invest in their relationships and lead their teams effectively, offering a subscription to his regular Success Thought of the Day for further inspiration.

Opinions

Daily work challenges contribute to team bonding but are enhanced by planned shared activities.
Trust is fundamental in relationships and is built through understanding each other beyond the workplace.
Personality and behavioral tests are useful tools, but genuine interest and time spent together are more effective in understanding team members.
Shared activities can range from structured team-building exercises to simple, enjoyable gatherings like BBQs or bowling nights.
The key to successful team relationships is engaging in activities that encourage personal interaction without focusing on work-related topics.

Invest in Relationships

A significant consideration for all of us is how we invest in relationships. I would go a step further to say it is doubly important for those who lead teams. Having the privilege of managing teams for more than twenty years I appreciate that the challenges faced together on a daily basis can serve to build relationships. However, I have found that the time you plan away from the work, in shared activities that you enjoy together, truly creates more depth in those relationships … and that matters.

Why does depth matter?

Depth matters because it helps establish trust. The better I know you, your strengths, qualities, habits, triggers, etc., the more I can appropriately interact with and rely on you. For sure, we can and should leverage tools such as Myers Briggs, DISC, PRINT, and other personality / behavioral tests. However, if my genuine interest is to get the very best out of you — — for you and the team — — then nothing can replace spending time with and listening to you (Fran Tarkenton talks quite a bit about this during our conversation), as that is how I get closer to understanding the authentic you.

What is a shared activity?

It can range from traditional team-building exercises offsite to much simpler things. I recall during my time at JPMorgan Chase in New York City, taking my team to Chelsea Pier for coordinated team-building exercises that included such things as rock climbing, trust walks, and more. However, I have also done simpler things that I found just as valuable such as afternoon BBQ, team bowling night, and the list goes on. The most important factor is doing something together that allows people to get to know each other without shop talk. Invest in relationships, lead your teams. Have a great day! James

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