Intrapreneurs are the secret weapons of successful companies. They are innovative, creative, and ambitious individuals who drive positive change from within. If you want to become a successful intrapreneur, one of the most important skills you need to master is building teams.
This is part 4 in a series of articles taking a look at the eight key characteristics that stand out in intrapreneurs. In this article we’ll explore why team building is crucial for intrapreneurs, the benefits of being skilled at it, and share three easy steps you can take to become a master team-builder.
Why Building Teams Matters for Intrapreneurs
As an intrapreneur, you have big ideas and the drive to make them a reality. But you can’t do it all on your own. To achieve your goals, you’ll need to gather a diverse group of talented individuals who share your vision and passion. A strong, cross-functional team is the foundation of any successful intrapreneurial venture. Having that will allow you to:
- Have access a diverse set of skills, experiences, and perspectives
- Accelerate innovation and problem-solving
- Foster a culture of collaboration and shared success
The Benefits of Building Teams for Intrapreneurs
When you become skilled at building teams, you set yourself apart as an intrapreneur. You’ll be equipped to exceed expectations in a number of ways:
- Faster Progress
With a strong team behind you, you can achieve your goals more quickly and efficiently. - Greater Innovation
A diverse group of talented individuals can spark new ideas and creative solutions that wouldn’t be possible alone. - Increased Buy-in
A well-built team is more likely to be invested in the project’s success and committed to seeing it through. - Networking Opportunities
Building teams allows you to expand your network and connect with potential collaborators, mentors, and future team members.
What Holds People Back from Building Their Tribe/Teams
Despite its importance, many people struggle with building teams. Here are some things that often cause us to procrastinate. As you read through this, take a moment to think about which have ever applied to you.
- Fear of rejection or failure
The thought of reaching out to others and being turned down or not being able to create a successful team can be intimidating. Remember, even the most successful intrapreneurs have faced rejection and setbacks. It’s a natural part of the journey, and overcoming this fear is essential for growth. - Uncertainty about where to find the right people
It can be difficult to know where to start when looking for potential team members. Keep in mind that talented individuals can be found in a variety of places, such as networking events, social media, and even within your current organization. Stay open-minded and proactive in your search. - Lack of confidence in their own leadership abilities
Some people may doubt their ability to lead a team effectively, which can prevent them from taking the first step in building their tribe. It’s important to recognize that no one starts as a perfect leader; it’s a skill that can be developed over time. Embrace your unique strengths and be open to learning from your experiences and those around you.
Three Easy Steps to Become a Team-Building Pro
Don’t let these challenges hold you back! Here are three simple things you can do to start our journey to become a master team-builder:
1. Share Your Vision! Clearly articulate your goals and help others see how they can contribute.
When you have a big, bold vision it can sometimes seem crazy and foolish to others. To get others onside, we need to break that vision down so we can take people on the same journey of learning you have already been on to arrive at your vision.
To get started, write down your vision and then break it down into smaller, achievable goals. These smaller goals are what you should begin talking to people about. Tell your story… the story of how you came to this point where you decided you need to act.
Practice telling your story and discussing your vision with friends, family, or colleagues. Listen to feedback and refine your message as you go to make it more compelling.
When you meet potential team members, be enthusiastic and genuine about your ideas. Share your vision in a way that highlights the benefits and opportunities for those who join your tribe! Help them understand the role they could play and the value they would bring to the project.
2. Seek Out Diverse Talent: Actively search for individuals with different skills, backgrounds, and perspectives.
Start by identifying the skills and expertise that you need to achieve your intrapreneurial goals. Create a “wish list” of the ideal qualities you’re looking for in team members. This will give you a clearer idea of the type of people you need to search for.
Attend networking events, join online communities, and engage with colleagues within your organization to find potential candidates. Don’t be afraid to approach people who have different backgrounds or experiences – they can often bring fresh perspectives that lead to innovative solutions.
3. Show that you Value Others’ Input: Encourage open communication, active listening, and mutual respect.
Lead by example. Encourage your tribe to share their ideas, ask questions, and give feedback. Be open to their suggestions and show appreciation for their input.
Promote active listening by giving everyone a chance to speak and truly hear what they have to say. Encourage team members to be respectful and empathetic when addressing each other’s concerns or ideas.
As you seek to build your tribe, plan regular events where people can present their ideas and work. Consider how you can create opportunities for team members to bond and build trust, such as team-building activities or social events. This can be as simple as “brown-bag” lunch & learn sessions.
Build Teams, Achieve Success
To truly thrive as an intrapreneur, you must become skilled at building teams. By gathering a diverse group of talented individuals who share your vision, you can unlock new levels of innovation, accelerate your progress, and create a lasting impact. Start today by sharing your vision, seeking out diverse talent, and fostering a collaborative culture. Together, you and your tribe can achieve great things.
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If you’re passionate about becoming more intrapreneurial you’ll definitely want to check-out the Intrapreneurship Mastery Programme. This cohort-based coaching and training programme offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop the entrepreneurial mindset and skillset of attendees. Or, contact us if you have specific needs you want to discuss.
