Why do certain teams outperform others? What sets these high-performing teams apart? Assembling a successful project management team takes more than gathering skilled individuals. It requires a deliberate focus on developing key qualities and cultivating practices that drive performance, collaboration, and accountability. High-performing teams emerge from intentional leadership development, structured communication, and a strategic alignment on goals.
This is especially important in an industry like construction, where project demands can be intense, hours can be long, and conditions unpredictable — having a team that works cohesively under pressure can make all the difference to your bottom line.
It’s not only about technical know-how; it’s about making sure that every team member, whether in the office or on the job site, shares a clear understanding of project goals, adapts quickly to changes, and feels empowered to take ownership of their role.
Understanding how to build and sustain a high-performing project team is essential for construction companies to stay competitive and consistently deliver exceptional results. Here are some key elements to consider when building a high-performance project team that not only meets but exceeds expectations.
Get the Right People on the Team
Building a high-performing project team starts with hiring the right people. While technical skills are important, attitude and cultural fit should also play a big role in the hiring process.
- Hire for Attitude, Train for Skill: Skills can be taught, but a positive attitude, drive, and alignment with the company culture are harder to instill. In the construction industry, where conditions can be physically demanding and schedules often unpredictable, team members with a strong work ethic and willingness to learn can significantly impact the team’s performance.
- Don’t Confuse Experience with Output: The most experienced person is not always the most effective team member. Sometimes, those with fewer years in the industry bring fresh perspectives, new energy, and a willingness to adapt that more seasoned workers may lack. A balanced team with diverse levels of experience can create an environment where learning and growth are continuous.
- Ensure a Cultural Fit: It’s important to ensure that new hires align with the company’s values and team dynamics. In construction, where teamwork is the key to getting the job done, hiring someone who fits the culture can make all the difference in maintaining a motivated and collaborative work environment.
Develop Leadership Skills
Strong leadership is the cornerstone of any successful project team, and this holds especially true in construction. Leaders must not only set clear expectations and provide direction but also be skilled in conflict resolution, accountability, change management, and decision-making. Furthermore, they need to foster these skills in their team for improved collaboration and elevated performance.
- Conflict Resolution: With multiple teams working on various aspects of a construction project, conflicts are inevitable. Effective leaders should be able to address issues quickly, prevent escalation, and maintain team morale. For example, mediating disputes between crew members or subcontractors in the field can prevent delays and ensure that everyone remains focused on the project goals.
- Accountability: High-performing project teams thrive on accountability, and it starts with people who lead by example. Leaders must not only hold their team members responsible but also demonstrate accountability in their actions, setting the standard for others to follow. When leaders exhibit accountability, it drives higher standards across the entire team and fosters a culture where everyone is committed to delivering results.
- Change Management: Construction projects are dynamic, with unforeseen conditions and owner-driven changes often requiring swift pivots to plans. Leaders who can guide their teams through these time-demanding and time-sensitive processes will help their team stay focused on the end game.
- Decision-Making: Quick and informed decision-making is essential when dealing with fast-moving projects. Leaders who provide clear channels for decision-making and encourage input from the team will foster an environment where individuals feel valued and involved, leading to more cohesive teamwork.
Facilitate Open and Effective Communication
Communication is not just about ensuring everyone knows their tasks for the day – it’s about fostering an environment where information flows seamlessly between all teams, from the office to the field. This ensures that everyone is aligned on project goals and any changes that might occur.
- Provide Clarity in Instructions: Providing clear, detailed instructions can help prevent misunderstandings that lead to errors. Visual aids like sketches, annotated blueprints, or even brief video demonstrations can enhance understanding, especially for field teams who may be working under tough conditions.
- Practice Active Listening: It’s important that leaders and project managers actively listen to feedback from team members. Field teams often have valuable insights that can improve efficiency or address potential safety concerns. Creating an open forum for this feedback can foster a culture of continuous improvement.
- Bridge the Gap Between Office and Field: A common challenge in construction is the disconnect between project management staff in the office and workers in the field. Ensuring that all team members are on the same page, whether it’s about daily targets, project changes, or safety updates, is critical. Implementing regular check-ins and using tools that facilitate real-time communication can help bridge this gap.
- Understand Different Communication Styles: Not everyone communicates the same way or receives information in the same manner. At Velocity Advisory Group, we use an innovative approach to the traditional DISC assessments to help leaders understand their unique communication preferences and how they interact with others. Our four Bird styles – Eagle, Parrot, Dove, and Owl – each reflect distinct approaches to communication. By knowing your style and that of your teammates, you can leverage your strengths while adapting to the needs of those around you.
Empower Your Team
Empowered teams perform better. When team members feel trusted and have a sense of ownership over their work, they are more likely to take initiative and go the extra mile.
- Delegate and Trust: Leaders should delegate tasks not only to lighten their own workload but to develop their team’s capabilities. Empowering crew members to make decisions within their scope of work shows trust and can lead to quicker problem-solving.
- Encourage Continuous Learning: Provide opportunities for team members to upskill or cross-train in different areas of construction. This not only adds value to the team but also keeps individuals motivated and engaged.
- Recognize Initiative: When a team member goes above and beyond, recognize it. Positive reinforcement can boost morale and encourage others to take initiative as well. Whether it’s solving a logistical issue on-site or suggesting a new method that saves time and resources, acknowledging these efforts fosters a culture of innovation.
Creating a high-performing project team is about more than just hiring the most skilled workers. It involves developing strong leadership, ensuring effective communication, hiring for attitude and cultural fit, and empowering team members to take ownership of their roles. At Velocity Advisory Group, we specialize in helping organizations build teams that excel by focusing on leadership development and creating a culture of high performance. Whether in construction or any other industry, these principles can be applied to help your organization thrive. Learn more.