The way in which we communicate in groups can influence the degree of team work that we are able to achieve. Firstly, let’s acknowledge that there is a difference between groups and teams.
Teams have a common goal. Groups come together in a more casual way and may be driven by affinity or our other commonalities. People will show up for a meeting based on 3 critical factors.
The factors are:

  1. Who invited them
  2. The topic to be discussed
  3. Where the meeting is being held  (Alcantara, 2009).

When you’re looking to gather the troops keep these factors in mind. Where will you meet? Is it esthetically pleasing? How long will the meeting last, and what is on the agenda? Have they been offered an appropriate time to co-locate their meeting? Have you reached out to the “challenging” personalities? If not, it’s time to do so. Everybody brings a meaningful perspective. It’s really about whether or not you’re able to see it for what it is. Do you see value in their contribution? If not, why not?

Peace,
Lucia

Reference:
Alcantara, L (2009) Not Just Talk: How Social Change Agents Produce Knowledge in Cooperative Inquiry Groups. (Available on Amazon.com)