Any time you put employees into a group with the goal of completing a project, there are a number of issues that can crop up.
Here are three of the most common group project problems — as well as how employers should handle them.
1. One group member is too dominant
Every group needs a leader, but when one staffer wants to do everything and monopolizes all discussions, it can be a major problem.
If this is the issue, be sure to assign clear and defined roles for each member in the group. And try to avoid putting the dominant person in control.
2. Group members don’t listen to one another
When employees are on a tight deadline, they may begin to ignore each others’ ideas. If this is the case, you may need to give your employees’ a bit more time to get the job done. You may also have to remind them to keep everyone’s ideas and suggestions in mind.
3. People are easily sidetracked
It’s easy for people to get mired in an issue that doesn’t have any real bearing on the project as a whole — or for an individual to get immersed in something that doesn’t involve the rest of the group.
To prevent this problem from the get-go, be sure to set clear expectations and stick to the agenda. Also, encourage team members to handle individuals issues outside of the meeting times.