How I coached matrix project teams to reduce conflicts and achieve better productivity
As a team coach for matrix project teams, I've witnessed firsthand the unique challenges and opportunities these dynamic structures present. Matrix organizations, with their intersecting lines of authority and responsibility, offer fertile potential for innovation and efficiency. However, they also present unique challenges that can hinder team performance if not properly managed. In my team coaching work, I've consistently observed several key issues:
Real-World Scenarios
To illustrate these challenges, let me share two common scenarios I've encountered:
These situations highlight the delicate balance matrix project leaders must strike between achieving project goals and maintaining positive relationships across the organization.
A Systems Approach to Team Effectiveness
The key to overcoming these challenges is viewing teams as complex adaptive systems. This perspective recognizes that teams are:
Team members understand that their interactions are only sometimes predictable. They embrace this complexity by fostering open communication and collaboration, allowing creative problem-solving and innovation.
The team views setbacks as learning opportunities. They regularly reflect on their processes, seeking continuous improvement. This adaptive mindset helps them pivot quickly when faced with obstacles, ensuring they stay on track to meet their goals.
By viewing the project team as a complex adaptive system, team members develop a more holistic and effective project management strategy. This approach leads to better alignment with external factors, enhanced collaboration, and a continuous learning and adaptation culture.
The 5Cs Shared Leadership Disciplines
I've successfully implemented the 5Cs Shared Leadership Disciplines framework to put this systems approach into practice. This comprehensive model addresses the multifaceted nature of matrix team management:
1. Connect:
2. Contract:
3. Collect:
4. Collaborate:
5. Challenge:
Finding Your Team's 'Why'
A compelling and shared purpose is at the heart of every successful matrix project team. Establishing this 'why' is crucial and involves:
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As team management expert Meredith Belbin wisely noted, "The merits of a team should never be assessed without first considering its purpose."
Discovering Your Team's 'How'
Once the 'why' is established, it's time to focus on the 'how'. This involves:
In Tom's example above, Tom may need to engage his team members and their line managers on the importance of his project to the organization to foster shared ownership and accountability. He might also have to empathize with his team members' demanding work schedules and work out flexible ways to best accommodate everyone's schedule.
Next, he might have to set ground rules for the project work and get everyone's contribution and agreement on mutually agreed-upon behavioral norms and ways of working together.
Above all, he needs to create sufficient psychological safety so that everyone's contribution is heard and they can express their ideas without inhibition. Tom must avoid the "leader as hero" mentality. He must empower team members and distribute leadership responsibilities.
Adapting to Team Changes
Matrix project teams are often dynamic, with members joining or leaving as project needs evolve. When a new member joins, it's crucial to assess:
Similarly, when a team member departs, consider:
In both cases, it's essential to revisit the team's purpose, re-evaluate dynamics, and focus on team development and culture.
Ensuring Project Success
Throughout the project lifecycle, I emphasize:
As projects near completion, I facilitate reflective discussions to capture lessons learned and promote continuous improvement.
Conclusion
Leading a matrix project team is undoubtedly challenging, but it can be gratifying with the right approach. By viewing your team as a complex adaptive system and applying the principles outlined in above, you can navigate the complexities of matrix management and drive your team toward greater productivity and success.
Effective team management is an ongoing process. Regularly revisit your team dynamics, especially when:
By consistently maintaining this vigilance and applying these strategies, you'll be well-equipped to master the matrix and lead your project team to new heights of achievement.
My name is c.j., and I'm a Sales Leadership Team Coach. I also help management and internal project teams leverage one another's strengths to create team synergy.
What are your experiences working in an internal project team? Share your stories in the comments below!
#teamcoaching #teamculture #projectteams #sharedleadership
Emerging Tech Futurist | Board Advisor | Strategic Foresight | Global Keynote Speaker
2moInsightful. I am a proponent of the “ground rules” not only about what we will do and how we will do it, but also with an active set of “these are things we will NOT do”. If anything on that latter list transpires then that’s where effective communication as the conductor comes in 🎯
Self-leadership | Leadership | Career | Team Coach | B2B Tech-Marketing Advisor and Mentor
2moVery insightful cj Ng 黄常捷 - Sales Leadership Team Coach love the clear framework and the structure of how to effectively manage a matrix project.
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2mo"Culture eats strategy for breakfast" - Peter Drucker Many leaders underestimate the value of ground rules and team norms.