As we head into baseball season, it seems like a good time to talk about teams. If you’ve ever been fortunate enough to be a member of a great team, you’ll appreciate its value. I can assure you that I haven’t been on a good sports team (having me on it would ruin it!) but I can see how magic is similar to a good work team of any kind.

I use the word “team” instead of “committee” because it feels more action-oriented. And I think a team comes together to take action. Every time a team meets, they must know what action is required of them. The Phillies take the field to win a game. Your team gathers around a table to solve a problem, make a decision, or create something new.

A team draws its power from its members, but its strength is greater than the sum of its parts. It is the joint work that produces the results. I like the quote from Margaret Mead: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful and committed citizens can change the world. In fact, it is the only thing that has.” That really says a lot about the power of sharing ideas and working to make something happen.

I advocate teams with varied members, people with different perspectives. If you are discussing a new program, the conversation will be richer and more productive if you have representatives from all groups present. In addition to the staff member who will manage the program, this would include a volunteer, a customer who might receive the service, a donor, or a board member. You decide who is appropriate, but you make an effort to include all appropriate constituents. Diversity and variety are important elements in the creative process, when everyone comes from the same point of view and the same experience, the results will not be as interesting.

Speaking of perspectives, if the program is for youth, include a youth perspective. If it’s for the elderly, make sure they are represented. The same goes for income levels, education, residence…

In your leadership role, you will regularly form teams: some will work together for a year, while others will solve a problem and disband. Your organization will become more fluid and adaptable when you learn how to quickly build teams. You will get an added bonus by including more and more people in your teams. Each team member will have a new and higher level of commitment to the organization and their work. And that’s where the growth begins.