Doug Seacrist, expert in self-managing teams, shares the journey of reinventing technology support in a restaurant system. Topics include challenges of self-management, SLAM teams, and transitioning to a new way of operating. Insightful advice for leaders on creating self-managing teams and achieving excellence.
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Quick takeaways
Transitioning to self-managed teams involves empowering members for collaborative ownership.
Effective communication, from digital platforms to in-person discussions, is essential for team success.
Deep dives
Embracing Self-Management in Teams
Moving towards self-management in teams can be challenging, but ultimately rewarding. As teams transition to this new way of working, they experience a shift in responsibility and decision-making. The process involves empowering team members to take ownership of their work and collaborate more effectively. By creating clear team charters, encouraging continuous communication, and embracing experimental practices like retrospectives, teams can navigate the challenges of self-management successfully.
The Evolution of Team Dynamics
Teams evolve from traditional structures to self-managed pods, promoting collaboration and shared ownership of work. Practicing effective communication through platforms like Microsoft Teams or Slack keeps teams connected and engaged. Transitioning from email-heavy communication to in-person discussions enhances team dynamics and problem-solving. Support teams have seen significant improvements in metrics by fostering a culture of support and collaboration.
Navigating Challenges in Organizational Change
Leaders transitioning to self-management should prioritize quick action over extensive planning, allowing teams to adapt in real-time. Embracing messiness and challenges with resilience is crucial for success. Empowering and listening to the team fosters a culture of trust and accountability, facilitating smoother transitions to self-management. Establishing clear boundaries and guardrails while giving teams autonomy ensures a balance between empowerment and compliance.
Maintaining Optimism and Energy Throughout Change
Maintaining an optimistic and problem-solving mindset throughout organizational change energizes teams and instills confidence in the process. Encouraging curiosity and a 'figure it out' attitude inspires team members to tackle challenges creatively. Leaders should embody an unwavering belief in the team's ability to navigate change successfully, setting a positive tone for the transition to self-management.
When we decide to start working differently, it often begins with just one or two teams taking the leap. For everyone involved, the first weeks and months are a rollercoaster of highs and lows. Not everyone has the courage to see things through.
In this episode of Brave New Work, Aaron Dignan and Rodney Evans talk about SLAM teams (self-managing, lean, audacious, multidisciplinary), the early days of a transformation, and why leaders should stay the course even when the going gets tough. Later, they’re joined by Doug Seacrist, from Bloomin’ Brands, who shares his story of reinventing the technology support function inside a huge system of restaurants.