High Speed Trust

My favorite event to watch in the various bike races is the team time trial.  It takes what is typically seen as an individual sport and turns it into a team race against the clock.  All nine riders start at the same time and quickly form a line of riders with each rider taking turns at the front while the rest of the team drafts behind.  It allows each rider to take advantage of the slipstream in front of them to conserve energy and recover from leading the team.  The space between each biker can be inches to maximize the draft.  

It’s a great example of a high performing team.  And it only happens with complete trust.

·        Whoever is in the front has to be able to pick the line to take on road with minimal bumps and debris.  The team members behind have to trust that whoever is in the front will lead them in the safest and fastest line.

·        The riders are within inches of each other in the race against the clock.  They have to trust that the person in front of them is maintaining a consistent speed and cognizant of what the next rider is doing.  A lack of concentration for a split second can end in disaster with a pile up of bikes, a spin out, or a break in the line.

·        There has to be complete trust that everyone on the team is giving 100% at the front through the entire ride to maximize the potential of the line.  There will be a chance to recover as leadership rotates to the front.

Similarly, our teams have to have a solid foundation of trust to be successful long term. Each person needs to know their leader is going to do what he/she can do to remove obstacles to be successful.  The individuals need to know that their team members are watching out for them and will share their strengths when needed.  The team needs to know the vision and plan to get them to the finish line.

·        Have conversations with your team about obstacles to success.  Ask them what you can do to help them be successful.

·        Create the opportunity for each person on your team to share what they do best – we assume what it is sometimes by experience, but it is important for each individual to share it.  You might learn something new and uncover a talent gone into hiding.

·        Communicate.  Tell people where you are going and how you see your team getting there.  Don’t make them guess.

·        Give each team member opportunities to lead various projects.  It builds your team and also gives you a chance to recover from hectic times.