Mutual Accountability – Another key to Unlocking Exceptional Teamwork 

I thought about Ilan Meslier, the Leeds United goalkeeper, when he made an almighty error during a recent game away to Sunderland. I was commentating on the game from the stadium and interviewed the manager, Daniel Farke, and the captain, Pascal Struijk, post-match.

They both offered support and collective responsibility, which was pleasing to hear. We will always make mistakes; we’re human. This is how strong teams respond – win and fail together.

Team members holding each other accountable creates a culture of reliability and high performance. It’s not about blame but supporting each other to meet commitments, especially when a teammate makes a howler.

In business, for your team, the key aspects:

• Clear responsibilities: Everyone should know who’s responsible for what

• Peer reviews: Implement systems for team members to provide feedback to each other

• Celebrate collective wins (and learn from collective setbacks): Reinforce the idea that the team succeeds or fails together

In team meetings, have members publicly commit to their tasks for the week. In the following meeting, start with a quick round of progress updates. In strong teams, no one wants to let their teammates down!

No one will feel worse than goalkeeper Ilan Meslier for his teammates at Leeds United. With the support of a strong team around him, watch him respond and play a leading part in the subsequent victory!

#Teamwork #DreamTeam #Leadership