DREAM TEAMS:  HOW TO BUILD YOUR ULTIMATE SECRET WEAPON

A dream team is a special group of people that come together to achieve extraordinary results.

Many of the most successful people have figured out the benefit of creating their own personal dream team.

They hire the best doctors, lawyers, coaches, accountants, architects, childcare, landscapers, or nutritionists.   They have the mindset to get the best because they feel they deserve the best.

You may already have a variety of people in your life that support you in various ways.  They could even include family members and friends.  But the question is, could you be creating something even more magical with some strategic selections that take your life or work to a whole new level?

Here are 7 steps to building an effective dream team:

1)  Clarify what the most critical personal attributes are to you

Know what you’re looking for and recognize that these attributes may vary according to the role on the team that you’re trying to fill. Ask yourself what matters most. Your list could include things like expertise, trust, similar values, or the ability to give you tough feedback.

You may also consider things like compassion, creative problem-solving ability, or flexibility.  Just be clear on what those criteria are and compare each candidate to that criteria first.  Once you have candidates that meet the criteria, then compare the candidates to each other.  Avoid just going with your gut instincts or comparing candidates that don’t even meet the basic criteria.

2)  Get referrals from people you know, but also do your own research

Nobody knows what’s going to work for you more than you.   Talk to multiple candidates and do your own due diligence on their track records.   Sourcing people from multiple places will also help ensure a more diverse pool of candidates.

3)  Set high standards for who you choose

Don’t settle for people you have some doubts about, especially if you are in a hurry to find someone.   Think of the disastrous results of hiring the wrong childcare worker.  Be willing to dig deeper to get more referrals to other candidates if necessary.   Recognize also that the best talent out there usually commands the highest fees.  Figure out the most you are willing to pay, and don’t be afraid to spend it if necessary.  Often the cheapest is not the best option.

4)  Clarify your expectations so you can avoid misunderstandings or dissatisfaction

Don’t be afraid to speak up when things don’t meet your standards.  Get good at giving constructive, yet non-confrontational feedback.  Remember that most people aim to please and would prefer to know if you’re not happy rather than just getting rid of them.  Just be sure to be specific about what you’re looking for from them and assume that they have the best intentions.

If after some coaching, you’re not seeing better results, be disciplined about moving on to find someone for your team that is a better fit or more highly skilled.  Sometimes one bad dream team member can bring the whole group down if coordination among members is required.

5)  Be willing to invest some of your time to ensure their success

Don’t expect people to jump in with no context or background and be as effective working with you as people who you’ve spent time building trust and good communications with.  Whether the team member needs clarity on what needs to be done, advice about how to handle something, or feedback on what they’ve provided, make sure you do it.

6)  Keep members motivated by rewarding them in ways they find most valuable

You’ll keep your dream team members happier and more motivated when you show appreciation, trust, and respect.  Ask if there is anything you can do for them.  Even paid service providers can use something, such as a good review or referrals. For some people, that may mean extra monetary compensation.  For others, it may be time off, a note of appreciation, or a dinner out.  Don’t assume that the preferred rewards are the same for all people.  When in doubt, ask.

7)  Continue to re-evaluate whether you have the right mix of people

Dream team members may need to evolve as your goals and needs change, and not every team member turns out to be a good fit.  Be prepared to make adjustments as you go along.  Keep in mind that some dream team members may be temporary to help you achieve a very defined shorter-term goal, while others may be long-term players, like your accountant.

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