Book Review: The Five Dysfunctions of a Team
Intriguing title, isn't it?! The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni is a quick read with powerful applications. Along with his first two best-selling books, The Five Temptations of a CEO and The Four Obsessions of an Extraordinary Executive, he uses his unique storytelling ability to illustrate the five areas of dysfunction within teams.
Facing dysfunction head-on
The first part of the book is in story format of how one particular CEO led the executive team in identifying the dysfunctions within their team then how they proceeded forward with change and commitment. There were times when it wasn't a pretty picture but nevertheless, the process was necessary. Two of these dysfunctions are:
- Absence of trust - Representing Invulnerability
- How can a team function well if you don't trust each other and are unwilling to become vulnerable!!
- Inattention to results - Representing Status and Ego
- Are you willing to pay attention to the bottom line and see if your work produces results? Do you think inattention to results affects a team environment?
- Are you willing to pay attention to the bottom line and see if your work produces results? Do you think inattention to results affects a team environment?
A model to rise above the mess
Throughout the book, Lencioni reveals the five dysfunctions that go to the heart of why teams often struggle. But he doesn't leave you wondering how to overcome them. He goes on to provide "The Model" of how to rise above each struggle. The Model is a segment of the book designed to provide a clear, concise and practical guide to using the Five Dysfunctions Model to improve your team. It includes tools, suggestions and exercises to overcoming each dysfunction as well as realistic suggestions for the role of the leader.
A stronger, more productive team
The accounting profession is a team driven endeavor. People are your greatest asset. However, if the team has dysfunctional issues the company suffers. This affects your relationships with your clients and eventually the profitability of the company. A united team effort can not be provided to a client when there are internal dysfunctions. Working through these issues and coming out on the other side a stronger and more productive team will bring great rewards to each team member along with the company.
The book is a must read for everyone in the profession that is concerned about strengthening their team and is interested in finding a model that is easy to follow and ultimately effective when used.