Checklist for Evaluating Yourself as a Team Leader

INSTRUCTIONS

To evaluate yourself as a team leader, answer these questions by checking the box that applies: "Always,"
"Often," "Rarely," or "Never." Your answers will help to pinpoint areas of improvement that could lead to better
leadership.

Rate yourself using the scale: 4 = Always; 3 = Often; 2 = Rarely; 1 = Never

RATING

QUESTION 1 2 3 4

Do you help the team clarify its purpose, goals, and approach?

Do you actively participate as a member of the team, not just serve in the role of leader?

Do you put team results ahead of personal achievement?

Are you able to strike a balance between doing things yourself and letting other people do them?

Are you able to strike a balance between too much control and too little guidance?

Do you invite members to offer alternatives when decisions need to be made and facilitate effective
team decision making?
Do you encourage team members to share information and ideas?

Do you identify and act to remove barriers for the team?

Do you help the team resolve conflicts and problems in a positive and constructive way?

Do you ensure that the team is accountable for its work and set milestones for the team to achieve
as it progresses toward its goals?
Do you regularly assess team progress and members’ perspectives on their contributions?

Do you coach team members to help them improve their performance?

Are you a champion for the team? For example, do you fight for needed resources and promote the
team’s best interests in dealings with the company?
Do you model the kind of behaviors you want to see in your team?

Do you recognize when your actions could hinder the team?

If you answered “Always” or “Often” to most of these questions, you are likely a highly effective team leader. If you
answered “Rarely” or “Never” to any question, you might want to think about the issue that the question implies and
about ways in which you might be inhibiting team performance. Brainstorm ways you can get help; for example, if you
think it’s appropriate, consider asking for guidance from the team sponsor. Or think about whether other managers or
peers can help. You might also consider asking the team for guidance.

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