Team Development: 3 Stages To Success

what constitutes the three stages of team development fm 6-22

FM 6-22 outlines the three stages of team development, which include training, enrichment, and sustainment. Training moulds individuals into a team, while enrichment focuses on building collective proficiency through training. In the sustainment stage, team members develop a strong sense of identification with their team, taking ownership and pride in their work. This stage also involves continuous training to maintain proficiency in collective and individual tasks.

Characteristics Values
First stage Training
Second stage Enrichment
Third stage Sustainment

cycivic

Training occurs during all three stages, especially enrichment

Training is an integral part of the three stages of team development outlined in FM 6-22, with each stage offering unique opportunities for growth and improvement. While training is a continuous process throughout these stages, it is particularly emphasized during the enrichment phase, where collective proficiency is built.

During the initial stages of team development, training plays a pivotal role in moulding a group of individuals into a cohesive unit, preparing them to tackle their assigned missions effectively. This foundational training lays the groundwork for the team's future success and helps establish a sense of purpose and direction. It equips team members with the necessary skills, knowledge, and understanding to work together towards a common goal.

As the team progresses to the second stage, known as the "enrichment" phase, training becomes even more crucial. This stage is characterized by the team's growing sense of collective identity and ownership. Team members take pride in their affiliation and are intrinsically motivated to ensure the team's success. Training during this stage focuses on enhancing the team's proficiency in both collective and individual tasks. It aims to strengthen the bonds within the team and encourage members to challenge themselves to reach new heights of accomplishment.

The final stage, referred to as the "sustainment" stage, witnesses a fully realized team dynamic. Team members have internalized their roles and are willing to go above and beyond without needing constant guidance or supervision. Training at this stage continues to reinforce the team's proficiency and adaptability. The leader plays a pivotal role in the development of subordinates, recognizing that they are nurturing tomorrow's leaders. Continuous training ensures that the team remains proficient in their collective and individual tasks, enabling them to adapt to new missions and challenges.

Throughout these three stages, training serves as the backbone of team development. It empowers individuals to become contributing members of their team, fosters a sense of unity and purpose, and promotes continuous improvement. By recognizing the importance of training during each stage, especially during enrichment, leaders can effectively mold a group of individuals into a high-performing, cohesive unit capable of accomplishing their missions with excellence.

cycivic

Team members identify with their team and take ownership

Team members identifying with their team and taking ownership is a crucial stage in the team development process outlined in FM 6-22. This stage, known as the sustainment stage, is when members truly embrace their team identity and work towards its success.

During this stage, team members develop a strong sense of belonging and loyalty to their team. They no longer see themselves as just individuals but as integral parts of a collective unit. This sense of identification leads to a sense of ownership and responsibility for the team's outcomes. Team members take pride in their team and are driven by a desire for the team to excel.

The sustainment stage is characterized by a high level of initiative and self-motivation among team members. They understand their roles and tasks intrinsically and are willing to do what is necessary without being told. This proactive attitude stems from a deep-rooted commitment to the team and its goals. Team members are invested in the team's success and are willing to put in the extra effort to ensure favourable outcomes.

To foster this sense of ownership, leaders play a pivotal role. They seize opportunities, such as new missions or challenges, to strengthen the team bonds even further. Leaders focus on developing their subordinates, recognizing that they are grooming future leaders. Continuous training is emphasized to maintain proficiency in both collective and individual tasks, ensuring the team remains adept at accomplishing its missions.

The sustainment stage is a pivotal point in team development, where the team transforms from a group of individuals into a cohesive unit. This transformation is marked by a shared sense of purpose and accountability. Team members identifying with their team and taking ownership signifies a mature and high-performing team dynamic, setting the foundation for effective collaboration and achievement.

cycivic

Leaders strengthen bonds and challenge teams to reach new heights

Leaders play a crucial role in strengthening bonds and challenging teams to reach their full potential, as outlined in the three stages of team development in FM 6-22. This process involves transforming a group of individuals into a cohesive unit, fostering a sense of collective proficiency, and driving the team towards continuous improvement.

During the initial stages of team formation, leaders focus on building relationships and establishing a shared purpose. They utilise their attributes, including character, presence, and intellect, to connect with team members and instill a sense of unity. Leaders at this stage also emphasise the importance of training, ensuring that individuals are prepared and equipped with the necessary skills to work together effectively.

As the team progresses, leaders continue to nurture the team's growth by encouraging open communication, collaboration, and mutual support. They foster an environment where team members feel empowered to take ownership of their tasks and make decisions independently. Leaders also promote a culture of continuous learning, where training is ongoing, and the team collectively strives for excellence.

In the final stage, leaders work on strengthening the bonds within the team even further. They encourage team members to identify with the team, take pride in their accomplishments, and strive for collective success. Leaders at this stage also focus on developing future leaders by mentoring and empowering subordinates. They challenge the team to reach new heights by setting ambitious goals and providing opportunities for growth, ensuring that the team remains dynamic and adaptable.

Throughout these stages, leaders at different levels, including direct, organisational, and strategic, influence the team in unique ways. Direct leaders have face-to-face interactions and provide first-line leadership. Organisational leaders exert indirect influence through their position and the direction they provide to subordinates and staff. Strategic leaders, on the other hand, shape the team's direction and drive change over extended periods. By understanding and effectively utilising these leadership levels, leaders can strengthen team bonds, enhance performance, and guide their teams to achieve exceptional results.

cycivic

Leaders should develop subordinates into future leaders

Developing subordinates into future leaders is a crucial aspect of leadership. Leaders play a pivotal role in moulding individuals into cohesive teams, preparing them to accomplish their missions, and, ultimately, fostering future leaders. This process unfolds across three stages of team development: training, enrichment, and sustainment. Here's how leaders can effectively develop subordinates into future leaders:

Get to Know Your Subordinates

Understanding your team is fundamental to effective leadership. Each soldier brings unique experiences, skills, and aspirations to the table. As a leader, take the time to learn about your subordinates' backgrounds, motivations, goals, and dreams. This knowledge will enable you to tailor assignments to their individual skills and mitigate potential weaknesses. Soldiers can sense whether you are genuinely interested in them as people or merely focused on yourself. By showing genuine interest and care, you will foster a reciprocal relationship, and your team will go above and beyond to accomplish their missions.

Provide Clear Guidance and Autonomy

Instead of micromanaging, offer clear guidance and establish parameters within which your subordinates can operate independently. Empower them to make decisions and find their own solutions within the boundaries you set. This approach fosters a sense of trust and ownership, allowing your subordinates to grow as emerging leaders. Be accessible and open doors for your team. Whether it's assisting with administrative tasks or supporting them in balancing work and family obligations, show them that you are there to help. This will enable them to focus on their missions without being weighed down by external worries.

Counsel and Mentor

Counselling and mentorship are integral to subordinate development. As a leader, be accessible and provide guidance to your team members. Help them navigate their personal and professional challenges and work together to develop plans to achieve their goals. Offer developmental counselling to new leaders, passing on your knowledge and experiences to prepare them for their future leadership roles. This investment in their growth will not only benefit them but also the collective team as they will be better equipped to lead in the future.

Continuous Training and Evaluation

Training is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. Leaders should ensure continuous training to maintain proficiency in collective and individual tasks necessary for mission accomplishment. Training during the enrichment stage is particularly crucial as the team builds collective proficiency. Evaluate your subordinates' performance regularly and provide constructive feedback. Help them identify their strengths and areas for improvement, and offer opportunities for them to enhance their skills. This continuous development will better prepare them for future leadership roles.

Foster Pride and Ownership

During the sustainment stage, leaders should focus on fostering pride and ownership within the team. Encourage subordinates to identify with their team, take ownership of their roles, and strive for the team's success. Empower them to take initiative and go beyond merely following orders. When subordinates feel a sense of ownership, they will be more inclined to step up, take responsibility, and exhibit leadership qualities. This sense of belonging and purpose will help shape them into future leaders who are committed to the team's success.

cycivic

Teams should continuously train to maintain proficiency

Training is an essential aspect of team development, and FM 6-22 outlines its significance in the three stages of team building. The first stage, known as the formation stage, lays the foundation for the team's growth. This is where individual members come together and begin their journey towards becoming a cohesive unit. Training at this stage is crucial as it moulds the group into a team, fostering a sense of collective identity and purpose.

The second stage, referred to as the enrichment stage, is where the team builds upon their collective proficiency. This is a critical phase for training as the team members are now more comfortable with each other and can focus on enhancing their skills and capabilities. Through continuous training, they can identify areas for improvement and work together to strengthen their bonds, ultimately preparing them for the challenges that lie ahead.

The third stage is the sustainment stage, where the team has fully embraced their identity and is driven by a sense of pride and ownership. At this stage, members are highly motivated and committed to the team's success. Training remains essential as it helps maintain their proficiency in both collective and individual tasks. By continuously training together, they can take on new missions and adapt to changing circumstances, ensuring they remain effective and efficient.

Furthermore, during the sustainment stage, leaders have the opportunity to develop their subordinates by providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to become future leaders themselves. This continuous training not only enhances the team's performance but also fosters a culture of growth and development. It ensures that the team remains dynamic and resilient, capable of adapting to new challenges and overcoming obstacles.

In conclusion, the three stages of team development outlined in FM 6-22 emphasise the importance of continuous training to maintain proficiency. By integrating training throughout these stages, teams can evolve from a group of individuals to a high-performing, cohesive unit. This process not only enhances their skills but also strengthens their bond and sense of collective purpose, ultimately contributing to their success in accomplishing their missions.

Frequently asked questions

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment