How to improve teamwork during crisis?
Teamwork is a pillar of effective crisis response and the key to managing interdependencies. Frequent and timely cross-team communication will minimize poor decision-making, which is why those who work synchronously and communicate effectively during a crisis invariably fare better.
There are countless elements that go into making a strong team. So, how do we create effective team working under pressure, quickly?
Focus on teamwork competencies
In a crisis, our tendency is to focus on technical training but we know the focus should be at least as much, if not more on teamwork competencies to help people to work together in new teams and challenging situations.
Encourage a climate of compassion
In this incredibly challenging time it’s really important to encourage a climate of compassion in our teams; compassionate support for each other, listening, understanding, empathizing and helping each other, checking in with each other to make sure we’re okay.
Make clear team purpose
It’s important to ensure that there is a simple and clear statement of the purpose of the team’s work that everyone understands, that’s repeatedly reaffirmed.
Clarify roles
Everyone needs to be clear about their role in the team and the roles of others. There must be a shared understanding of who is responsible for different types of knowledge and tasks during the work.
Minimise hierarchy
Particularly in multidisciplinary teams – we have to minimise hierarchy and boundaries between professionals so that we build trust. We build a valuing of everybody’s contribution
Value everyone’s contribution
A simple but effective way is by taking the time to have breaks together, to eat together. It makes a huge difference to our ability to work together effectively. And we know it makes a difference to the quality and outcomes of care.
Regularly plan and review
In a critical care situation, this should be daily, maybe at the start and end of shifts and schedule longer weekly reviews if possible. We know reviews are associated with higher levels of productivity, care quality, and staff wellbeing. Remember to review how the team communicates.
Trust is key
Build a climate of faith in each other’s benevolence, goodness, and compassion. Trust in the abilities and skills of fellow team members. Trust means that team members believe that a person will perform their duties.