I was at the automobile garage when a customer came crying about his car engine that knocked, and why? Because one of the parts responsible for pumping oil to lubricate the engine parts failed.
Let’s liken the concept of how the engine works to our team building. Knowing that each part of the engine is connected to another and when one part moves, it causes the other part to move smoothly and efficiently.
That is how team members are connected. When one member performs well, it causes the other team members to perform well and this causes a positive cycle of productivity for the entire team.
So how can we make our team work together like a well-oiled machine?
Consider the engine oil as it lubricates the different parts of the engine to reduce friction. Effective communication is that oil that keeps the team running smoothly. Similarly, the team should openly and honestly communicate with each other, building trust and understanding while reducing misunderstandings.
Also as the engine needs regular maintenance to keep running smoothly, the team needs regular checks to ensure everyone is on the same page and issues are addressed timely before they cause friction/damage. So regular meetings, performance evaluations, and team bonding activities are important.
The oil helps to protect different parts of the engine from wear and tear, similarly, it’s important to have systems in place that protects team members from stress and burnout. So have regular breaks, flexible working hours, and support resources.
There is a way the oil flows in the engine making different parts move smoothly, similarly, a clear and well-defined process helps to keep the flow of work moving effectively, so establish clear roles and responsibilities and a decision-making process for the team to work more together in achieving their goals.
I can share more concepts on this but it’s getting lengthy. Try to understand and implement this concept in your business and watch how your team will work like a well-oiled machine to achieve the set goals for 2023.