***Team Building- What Does the Leader Look Like?

Teams usually not only have a coach or leader they often have a captain or lead person. These people are important to the team. They are not only important for the guiding, teaching, and communication given but also for the way they present themselves to the team. Team members get cues from leadership and this is done in many ways but also body language is key.

Leaders need to be aware of the following:

• If the leader is in a good mood and positive this comes across in different ways. There are smiles, and terrific tone in the voice with just simple conversation. The leader has good body posture with a lot of energy. Teams feel this.

• Communication happens more easily when someone is percieved as positive. . Why? Because the team doesn't have to wonder what mood the leader is in, and is more receptive. This allows better and more productive relationships. Everyone is ready to listen because the positive is being talked about instead of thinking anything negative is coming. The energy of the team rises also.

• The uplifting energy of the leaders does cause a better flow among the team. Believing in the team comes across whether the words are said or not. This is given by giving directives and letting the team take off and do it. It shows trust which is a great motivator and show confidence in its members. If a team knows the leader has confidence, the team then has confidence in itself.

• If a team leader says something won't work or behavior of the leader implies that, the leader will probably be right. Remember that people look for all kinds of signs to see how things are going. It's just something people use as I said to get cues. Leaders can reassure the team simply by actions.

- Leaders needs to always tell the truth but this should be gentle. It's an easy way to keep the respect. People know when the truth is not being told. Leaders expect it from the team and the team expects it from the leader.
When leaders address people or lead people it will be perceived in different ways. This has a big affect on how the information and the result turn out.