I have seen this with teams that I have developed over the years. The leader with good intentions decides that he or she will begin to introduce competition among the team. So individual productivity based rewards are introduced to the team based as a way to drum up “healthy” competition. What the leader gets instead are team members not willing to give help, ask for help, provide best practices etc… Much like many of the team based reality games on television today like the “Biggest Loser” or “Survivor” team members will turn on teammates if it means they might win the game.

I am currently reading “In-N-Out Burger: A Behind-the-Counter Look at the Fast-Food Chain That Breaks All the Rules” by Stacy Perman. It is an interesting story of one of the most successful fast food chains ever. What is it about In-N-Out Burger that has led to its huge success?

Lack of clarity on team roles, and/or the purpose and vision of the team is an often common barrier to team effectiveness. When teams encounter this barrier they are less likely to have much passion, let alone commitment to the team.