Creating a Community

Community-building is an unrated trait in a leader. The stronger your team, the easier it will be to tackle the unexpected. Here are easy, medium, and more involved ways to build up your team culture. 

Easy 

  • Have an ice breaker question or game during your weekly meeting. 

  • When the team first gets established, require that each person has at least one 1:1 with every member of the team.

  • Regularly post updates, praise, and/or questions in your group chat so it feels like a welcoming place for your team to share their thoughts or questions.

Medium 

  • Host 90-day team check-ins, so the team can weigh in on what's working, not working, and what they'd like to do differently. 

  • If your job is remote, host a virtual happy hour. (This is easier with a smaller team).

AMBITIOUS

  • If your job is in-person, pick a time and place for an occasional happy hour. (Even twice a year is fine).

  • If your job is in-person, plan a team outing once or twice a year. 

  • If your company allows a community-building fund, consider things like a snack of the month or book of the month club. 

Jennifer Cuellar