What is a Group?

A group is defined as a number of individuals forming a unit for a certain

reason or cause. In an organization, a work group consists of two or more
individuals who work towards the same objective and may sometimes
function as a team but work independently. Groups at the workplace are
essentially formed as there are similarities to the work being done, but each
individual is working separately; some may work in the same departments,
while other groups may have members from different departments. People
within groups can relate but don't necessarily use their skills to work
together.
For example, a group at the office might go out to lunch together, have a
meeting together, or be grouped in the same department. Groups ultimately
share some similarities but don't rely on each other to accomplish their
work.

Characteristics of Groups
Groups may be characterized by size, status, and independent work
methods. Work groups may be small groups or large groups. The size of
the group may impact the cohesion of the group and the support within the
group. The status of a group may bring members closer together if they
share similarities. For example, a group of managers can relate to one
another in the type of work performed and their level within the
organization. Groups members also generally work independently. Though
their objectives may be similar, they don't work together to complete the
work.

Types of Groups

Groups can be categorized as either a formal group or an informal group.

A formal group is the type of group that is formed based on the roles
within a workplace. For example, a formal group may consist of members
of the marketing department, such as the marketing manager, social media
producer, and marketing associates. An informal group is a group at the
workplace that forms based on shared interests or other similarities that
don't relate to the work. For example, a group of workers that get together
for karaoke night is considered an informal group.

What is a Team?
A team is defined as a group of accomplished individuals who work
together toward a common goal that needs completion. Team members in
an organization rely on each other to accomplish certain tasks required of
the work. Individuals within a team usually complement one another,
meaning some may bring certain skills while others bring different needed
skills.
For example, a work team might be a group of people responsible for
organizing a corporate event. While one team member can organize the
marketing aspect, another can work on booking, while others can work on
the setup. This team uses different skills from different members.

1. Coach team members

An effective team leader coaches members on achieving goals and

developing necessary skills that get results. Coaching involves developing
team members’ performance, offering feedback and demonstrating the
desired skills and expected work ethic. A coach-style team leader works
alongside its members to develop their skills.

2. Develop team strengths and improve weaknesses

It is also the responsibility of the team leader to identify the team’s

strengths and weaknesses. By determining which team member excels at
which task, you can delegate the required tasks to the appropriate person.
It’s also helpful to determine areas of opportunity and the appropriate steps
to improve on them.

3. Identify team goals and evaluate team progress

In order to measure team success, it’s important to identify what success

means. Evaluating goals and determining how the team will measure
success can prevent miscommunication. This also gives team members a
clear understanding of what they are expected to complete. Setting clear
team goals and evaluating progress along the way allows teams to work
collaboratively.

4. Resolve conflict

Because teams are made up of different personalities, work traits and

motivations, conflict can sometimes occur. The team leader is responsible
for preventing conflict where possible and resolving it when it does arise.
By setting ground rules and clearly assigning tasks, you can prevent many
sources of conflict. If you notice conflict, it is best to resolve it before it
escalates. Meeting with both team members can give you insight into the
cause of the issue. Conferring with the members as a team can give
everyone the opportunity to come up with a solution that works for both
sides.
5. Organize team initiatives

Organization is necessary when there are multiple team members working

on a single goal. Individual projects, goals, communications and important
documents should remain clear and accessible. It is the responsibility of the
team leader to organize team meetings, topics of discussion and progress
toward the goal.