Practical strategies for leading an effective group. Balancing power, participation, and problem-solving

How can you more effectively lead your group? In today's world of rapid technological and social change, where Thriving on Chaos is the best-selling management book, group work is not a luxury, but a necessity. Although some employees naturally prefer working alone, we all must function effectively in group settings. To lead a group well, the leader needs to be sensitive to three critical variables: participation, power, and problem-solving. Balancing these processes becomes the key to effective performance. The leader must pay close attention to what is happening within the group and make specific interventions to more effectively distribute the skills and energies of the members. Making every group member a significant contributor takes skill but results in more accurate decisions and greater commitment. The group leader is the facilitator, charged with managing the problem-solving process and leading the group to the most productive, objective outcome. This article supplies many practical, corrective strategies for moving your group in a more positive direction.