Eight Aspects of Effective Teams

Observing dolphins provides us with a tremendouspath in which to swim.
example of how effective teams operate. Here are5. Dedication.
just some of the things we can learn from thisOnce a dolphin has selected the path it will swim, it
magnificent sea mammal:swims that path to the absolute best of its ability.
1. Diversity.6. Equality.
Although dolphins generally like to associate withNo single dolphin has a superior role in the pod or in the
dolphins from similar cultures, their very survivalsphere. Although it is true that some members seem
depends on joining a diverse group in the larger pod.to be given more respect, even those members treat
The diversity of the larger pod allows younger dolphinsall other dolphins as equals
to enjoy the experience of the more mature dolphins7. Loyalty.
while the more mature dolphins enjoy the increasedEach dolphin seems to have a sense of loyalty to the
speed of the younger dolphins.other dolphins. They seem to set personal interest
2. Communication.aside, even when a threat is present. Dolphins that
Dolphins use a clicking sound to alert other dolphinhave not yet eaten do not expect the other dolphins
sub-pods to their desire to form a feeding pod.to keep the sphere going once the threat is present. All
3. Collaboration.dolphins will scurry to safety. In a spirit of loyalty to the
Once in the larger pod, the dolphins collaborate as theyothers, all dolphins will communicate the danger to the
begin swimming in their sphere. There is no evidenceentire pod.
of any dolphin being more interested in placing his own8. Trust.
needs above the others when deciding which dolphinEach dolphin demonstrates a high degree of trust
will be first to go through the center.toward the other dolphins. They seem to have
4. Cooperation.complete confidence that each dolphin will receive a
The level of cooperation among the dolphins isfair share of the morsels trapped in the center of their
unparalleled. Each dolphin seems to identify a specificsphere.