Before Breakfast

Building the best team ever, with David Burkus

Jul 30, 2025
David Burkus, a bestselling author and leadership expert, shares invaluable insights on building effective teams. He emphasizes the importance of company culture and psychological safety over individual talents. Listeners will learn practical strategies, such as creating a 'manual of me' to enhance collaboration. Burkus also discusses the value of nurturing dormant relationships for networking and personal growth while addressing the fears of reaching out for authentic connections. His advice on balancing professional and family life adds a relatable touch.
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INSIGHT

Keys to Best Teams Ever

  • The best teams excel through strong culture, beyond just talent.
  • Key traits include shared understanding, psychological safety, and a pro-social purpose.
ADVICE

Ideal Team Size is Small

  • Keep teams small, ideally six to eight members, for effective communication and clarity.
  • Larger teams benefit from splitting into smaller groups to maintain cohesion.
ADVICE

Use "Manual of Me" Exercise

  • Create a "manual of me" where team members share their strengths, weaknesses, and needs.
  • Use these insights to improve collaboration and appreciation of differences immediately.
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