Working within an Owners Corporation (OC) requires effective collaboration between committees and OC managers to ensure the smooth operation of buildings and residential complexes. But great teamwork doesn’t just happen. It takes understanding team dynamics and building trust to make the magic happen! Here’s a lively look at the Five Phases of Team Development based on feedback received from our abundantly talented and experienced team of OC managers at OCX and how they can power up collaboration between OC committees and managers.
1. Forming – Setting the Stage
In this opening act, everyone’s just getting to know their roles - there’s a lot of polite nodding, some eager smiles, and maybe a bit of nervousness in the air. People are figuring out who’s who and what’s what.
Strategies for Success:
OC managers should take the lead by facilitating introductions, providing a clear picture of the committee's goals, and establishing well-defined expectations.
Quick and transparent communication will help build a foundation of trust and ease anxieties. By setting the stage properly, both parties can move towards productive collaboration - ready for action!
2. Storming – Embracing the Drama
Welcome to the storming phase—where the plot thickens! As committee members and managers start to work closely, differences in opinions or communication styles might bring a little *drama*. Tensions could rise, but that’s okay!
Strategies for Success:
This is where strong leadership from both the committee chair and the OC manager is critical. Open feedback channels, active problem-solving, and normalising conflict as part of the process will help ease tensions.
Think of it as building trust through honest, open conversations!
3. Norming – Finding the Groove
After the storm passes, the team starts to find its rhythm. This is the norming phase, where people begin to gel and work together more smoothly. There’s a shared sense of purpose, and a sprinkle of positivity keeps everyone engaged.
Strategies for Success:
Celebrate wins, big or small! Recognizing individual and group efforts is essential at keeping spirits high. OC managers should make sure everyone’s on the same page, aligned with goals, and feeling valued.
4. Performing – The Dream Team
Performing—the phase where everything clicks, and the team is a well-oiled machine! The OC committee and manager now trust each other and work like pros, handling challenges with ease and making decisions efficiently.
Strategies for Success:
Managers can "guide from the side," allowing the committee to lead in decision-making while offering support when needed. Celebrating successes and encouraging collective problem-solving will keep the team on their game and focused.
5. Adjourning – Taking a Bow
Eventually, all good things come to an end—whether it’s a big project wrapping up, the committee’s term ending, or a leadership change. This adjourning phase is a time to reflect, and yes, maybe feel a bit nostalgic.
Strategies for Success:
A structured process for reflecting on what went well and what could be improved is essential. Summative evaluations or “lessons learned” sessions can provide valuable insights for future committee activities.
Recognition of both individual and team contributions through events or acknowledgments will help maintain morale as the team disbands or transitions.
Unlocking the magic of teamwork starts with embracing the Five Phases of Team Development! When Owners Corporation committees and managers know the playbook, they can level up their teamwork, tackle obstacles like pros, and hit their goals out of the park. By recognizing and working with each phase, they’ll set the stage for an environment where collaboration isn’t just functional—it’s fun, efficient, and game-changing for the whole community.
From surviving the chaos of the storming phase to savouring the wins at the performing stage, the key ingredients are clear communication, trust-building, and smart strategies. Master these, and you're on your way to a team that clicks and a community that thrives!