Linda Henman

ph. 636.537.3774

Tips for Improving Accountability on Teams

  1.  Ambiguity is the enemy of accountability. Clarify publicly goals, roles, timelines, and deadlines.
  2. Make implied norms explicit. Talk about what you expect from one another.
  3. Address unproductive behavior when you encounter it.
  4. Put pressure on poor performers to uphold team standards of excellence.
  5. Encourage members to publicly promise what they will do.
  6. Articulate what decisions and tasks each member of the team will be held responsible for.
  7. Define the parameters for each task and decision.
  8. Specify who has authority for this decision and whether it will require approval, consultation, or notification of others.
  9. To capture the above areas of responsibility, create an accountability chart that will serve as a fluid document. Update it when needed, but talk about it frequently.
  10. Don't rely on the leader to act as the sole source of discipline. Fear of letting down teammates motivates people to improve more than adherence to policy and procedure does.