Beyond Cultural Silos: A Fresh Take on Team Building
Kay Group’s Groundbreaking Approach to Fueling Exceptional Team Performance
Diversity is often the topic of choice in today's corporate discourse, primarily due to its perceived positive impact on team performance. However, at Kay Group, we believe in expanding the conversation around diversity. Rather than restricting it to commonly identified factors such as age, gender, culture, and expertise, we propose dismantling these mental silos and embracing diversity in its true sense.
Our goal is to integrate all members into a team by recognizing and valuing each individual's unique perspective and experiences. Our perspective is rooted in the belief that diversity extends to the varied mental models, interests, and skills that individuals bring to the table.
Where it All Begins: The Inception of Team Development
As we commence team development, we often encounter a collection of individuals, each with their unique blend of mental models and interests. However, aligning this diverse mix does not happen organically. It hinges on the capacity of a leader to orchestrate this disparate group into a high-performing team.
In our pursuit of achieving high-performing teams, we favor a coaching approach over traditional training methods. The fundamental reason behind this preference lies in our commitment to reshape mindsets, which is integral to the way teams function and collaborate.
Our coaching approach is not an arbitrary choice; rather, it's a well-structured process underpinned by the application of a distinctive method known as "dialogue visualization." Borrowed from Metaplan Consulting, this technique is instrumental in nurturing a shared understanding among team members and fostering their commitment towards a common purpose.
To further enhance team dynamics, we believe in the importance of acknowledging and encouraging the various roles within a team. To assist us in this endeavor, we draw upon a research-based approach: the Belbin Team Roles model. This model facilitates the identification of natural roles that individuals tend to assume within a team. Recognizing these roles illuminates the diverse range of roles crucial to a team's success, thereby broadening our perception of team diversity.
In our coaching journey, we also rely heavily on another research-based strategy: the Tuckman team development model. This model guides us in navigating teams through a storming phase, a crucial juncture when differences among members begin to surface. It enables us to create an environment characterized by psychological safety and transparency. In this open atmosphere, team members can freely explore their differences, which are then aligned with the team's collective purpose and goals, propelling the team towards high performance.
Beyond Conscious Thought: Harnessing the Preconscious for Team Success
We also place significant emphasis on tapping into the preconscious mindset of team members - a malleable stage between consciousness and subconsciousness. Targeting this level enables us to uncover and highlight differences in mental models, initiating alignment towards common goals. It also brings to light hidden assumptions that could potentially cause conflicts within the team, enabling us to mitigate potential issues at an early stage.
Our innovative approach incorporates experimental learning tools and visualization techniques. For instance, we encourage members to express their thoughts, feelings, and mental models using pictures representing diverse work situations. We also provide avenues for anonymously voicing thoughts and feelings using a range of polling tools.
We capture these disclosed thoughts and feelings on note cards and display them for everyone to see. By delving deeper into each statement with coaching questions and grouping the statements based on similarities, we stimulate rich discussions. This process ultimately leads to committed action plans, creating alignment and fostering commitment within teams
Experience at Play: The Kay Group Difference
With our extensive years of experience in top executive positions and international consulting and coaching, we have gleaned valuable insights into the dynamics of managing diverse teams. This knowledge has been particularly beneficial in navigating the unique challenges posed by Japan's homogeneous and change-resistant corporate culture. Our distinctive approach, an intricate blend of practical methods and cutting-edge innovation, has been instrumental in fostering successful team development. Yet, it's not exclusive to the Japanese business environment - we believe in the universal applicability of our strategies, they can be utilized and thrive in any team, across the globe.
The task of leading diverse teams indeed poses its challenges, but they are far from insurmountable. Equipped with the right strategies and an open mindset, these challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth and success. At Kay Group, we stand steadfast in our commitment to guide teams through these challenges, driving the path of transformation from a group of individuals to a high-performing team.
If you are seeking to elevate your team's performance and foster a truly diverse and inclusive team culture, we invite you to explore our coaching and team-building programs. Let's embark on this journey together, building stronger, more resilient teams one step at a time.
Leaders poised to build and guide high-performing, multicultural teams in Japan, your journey to excellence begins here. Connect with Axel Wellbrock or Karin Wellbrock to explore tailored strategies that will elevate both you and your team to new heights of success. Reach out at axel.wellbrock@kaygroup-asia.com or karin.wellbrock@kaygroup-asia.com to start crafting your path to dynamic leadership and team synergy.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Axel Wellbrock is the Founder and Representative Director of Kay Group K.K., a Tokyo-based consultancy that specializes in leadership and organizational development. With a wealth of experience as a senior executive in the life sciences sector, Axel brings a unique blend of industry knowledge and coaching expertise to his role. As a certified Leadership and Team Coach, he is passionate about empowering senior leaders in Japan to fulfill their mandates and make a lasting impact within their organizations and industries. Axel’s work extends beyond coaching; he collaborates with leading organizations in life sciences and various other sectors, guiding them towards transformative success.
Karin Wellbrock, serving as the Partner and COO at Kay Group K.K., grounds her approach in a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within leadership and organizational development. As a certified Leadership and Team Coach, Karin excels in driving both established and emerging executives to make their mark in their fields. Known for her innovative yet pragmatic methodologies, she significantly enhances the effectiveness of leaders, especially for those aiming for the pinnacle of their careers.