Building Better Teams With Powers Of Observation

Using your powers of observation effectively in teams can lead to better collaboration, problem-solving, and overall team performance.

This guide will discuss observation skills, the characteristics of using observation skills in teams, their features and benefits, implementation areas, and examples of observation skills in action.

Definitions

• Observation skills – The ability to actively notice and interpret verbal and nonverbal behaviors, cues, patterns, details, and facts.
• Active listening – Fully concentrate on what is being said and engage with the speaker to understand their message.

8 Characteristics of Using Observation Skills in Teams

1. Being fully present and engaged during team interactions.
2. Noticing team dynamics and interpersonal behaviors.
3. Picking up on nonverbal cues like facial expressions and body language.
4. Identifying patterns and themes in team discussions.
5. Recognizing obstacles or challenges the team faces.
6. Detecting changes in team morale or energy levels.
7. Spotting gaps in team processes, collaboration, or problem-solving.
8. Gathering facts, data, and details relevant to team goals.

5 Features and Benefits of Observation Skills in Teams

1. Enhanced collaboration – By observing team dynamics, members can better support each other.
2. Improved problem diagnosis – Noticing patterns helps identify the root causes of issues.
3. Increased innovation – Observing challenges sparks creative solutions.
4. Better conflict resolution – Reading nonverbals prevents misunderstandings.
5. Higher team morale – Recognizing energy changes motivates and inspires.

Implementation Areas of Observation Skills in Teams

• Team meetings – Observe engagement levels, reactions, and interpersonal behaviors within meetings.
• Brainstorming sessions – Notice themes and spur ideas based on others’ contributions.
• Project debriefs – Identify patterns in what worked well or challenges faced.
• Problem-solving – Gather facts and details to understand problems better.
• Conflict resolution – Actively listen and read nonverbals to uncover interests.

Examples of Using Observation Skills in Teams

1. Noticing low engagement in meetings: An observant team member detects side conversations and lacks eye contact during team meetings. They suggest pausing to address barriers to full participation.
2. Identifying poor collaboration: A team member observes members working in silos. They facilitate a discussion on improving information sharing and support.
3. Detecting a dip in morale: A member notices a lack of energy and enthusiasm. To lift spirits, they organize a team-building event.
4. Spotting ineffective brainstorming: A member recognizes redundant ideas and low participation. They suggest a new technique to improve idea generation.
5. Pinpointing conflict sources: A member observes terse exchanges and crossed arms. They mediate to uncover unresolved issues causing tension.

Conclusion

Using your powers of observation helps create self-aware, collaborative, and high-performing teams.

By actively engaging your senses, you can identify opportunities for improvement and positive change.

With practice, observation becomes an invaluable skill for team success and giving feedback at work.

Catherine Fitzgerald B.A. M.A. PGDip( Founder )

With 30+ years of experience, Catherine Fitzgerald, B.A., M.A., PGDip, founded Oak Innovation in 1995. Catherine received her Bachelor’s degree and Master’s from University College Cork. She holds qualifications in Professional Development And Training from University College Galway. She is completing a second Master’s from University College Cork. Since 1995, clients include Apple, Time Warner, and Harvard University.