No matter how much businesses change, the ability to build strong teams is still one of the main qualities any businessperson should have. Building a strong team can turn a failed business adventure into a successful company, so it is not hard to understand why any business program focuses on building this skill.

This article explores the importance of building strong teams and some of the main aspects needed to achieve that. An advanced degree is one clear way to practice those team-building skills in any business space. The Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a Concentration in Organizational Development & Leadership online program at the University of Texas at Tyler (UT Tyler) helps business students learn what strong teams look like and how to master them.

What Are Some of the Challenges of Team Building?

While team building offers numerous benefits, this does not mean that leaders will not face challenges along the way. The International Journal of Management and Entrepreneurship notes some of the most common obstacles leaders face when trying to build a strong team, such as:

• Resistance to change: One primary problems in team building is employees resisting change. When new teams form or existing ones undergo restructuring, individuals may resist the transition due to the disruption of established social relationships.
• Lack of clear goals or no shared vision: Strong teams have common goals in mind and know what they work for. However, sometimes leaders try to build teams without focusing enough attention on communicating the motive behind the team, leaving team members lacking motivation.
• Group dynamics: Challenges such as “groupthink” and the pressure to conform can stifle creativity and innovation within teams.
• Lack of training: Some team members might be less prepared than others to efficiently perform in a corporate setting, which usually leads to communication issues and failed common goals.

Strategies for Creating a Cohesive Work Environment

Acknowledging the challenges of team building is crucial for professionals to address employee needs and foster strong collaboration and cohesion. According to Group Dynamix, implementing specific team-building practices will be vital for building trust, managing conflict and improving productivity. Some of these include:

• Building something for a cause: This can mean engaging employees in meaningful activities that contribute to the community, such as building homes or playgrounds for those in need. This not only fosters teamwork but also instills a sense of pride and fulfillment in making a positive impact.
• Art projects: Encourage creativity and collaboration through art projects. Working together on creative endeavors promotes outside-the-box thinking and provides an enjoyable break from routine tasks.
• Tournament-style games: Leaders can organize competitive games encouraging teamwork and healthy competition. These activities help employees build strong connections while also motivating them to do their best, which can lead to similar results in day-to-day tasks.

What Are the Benefits of Team Building?

According to Dynamix, team-building activities also allow employees to build connections with their peers outside of work, eventually leading to a clear improvement in communication patterns.

In addition to making collaboration more efficient and productive, team building also can be a helpful tool when it comes to increasing creativity. Team building exercises promote open communication, allowing team members to freely share their ideas and perspectives without fear of criticism. This fosters a culture of brainstorming and exploration, which is essential for innovative problem-solving. Team building also helps increase trust. When team members feel valued, respected and supported, they are more likely to share bold ideas and experiment without fear of judgment.

Finding the Right MBA to Learn About Team Building

Picking the right MBA program can make a significant difference in your ability to succeed in different professional areas, including team building. Today’s workplaces value collaboration and interpersonal skills, so it’s important to find an MBA program that focuses on these aspects of leadership. MBA programs that emphasize team building recognize its importance in creating a cooperative work environment, boosting productivity and reaching organizational objectives.

UT Tyler’s online MBA with a Concentration in Organizational Development & Leadership program offers a tailored curriculum, flexible learning options, experienced faculty and a strong reputation for academic excellence. By enrolling in this program, individuals acquire the knowledge, skills and network needed to excel in leadership roles and drive organizational success with team-building strategies.

Good leaders create positive work environments and help businesses make the most out of their teams, and this is why finding a program that focuses on helping you build that skillset. The online format of UT Tyler’s program offers flexibility for working professionals to balance their academic pursuits with personal and professional commitments. This flexibility enables students to integrate learning into their busy lifestyles without compromising other responsibilities. By enrolling in this program, aspiring leaders develop the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s dynamic business environment.

Learn more about UT Tyler’s online MBA with a Concentration in Organizational Development & Leadership program.