So you’ve been appointed team leader, or perhaps you are just seeking a better way to get the most from the members of your group. Rod Ricciardi, and experienced automotive professional with over 20 years of management under his belt, has achieved nearly unparalleled success with multiple professional teams over the course of his career. His experience and insight into the development and management of a professional team may be just what you need to get your team on track, empowering your employees with the tools they need to get the results your company is looking for.

Make Your Expectations Clear. Before you dive into any project, says Rod Ricciardi, be sure to outline your purpose, your expectations and your goals clearly to each member of your team. Team dysfunction, says Rod Ricciardi, often occurs when the members of your group aren’t on the same page, which can harm efficiency and ability to collaborate.

Give Your Team Purpose. Be sure, says Rod Ricciardi, to properly explain how your team, and its work, fits within the context of grander company goals. Providing purpose to your team, he says, helps to improve team morale, and shows the members the importance of their work in the obtainment of organizational goals.

Determine if You Have the Right People. This may be obvious, says Rod Ricciardi, but the only way team harmony and success can be achieved is with the most appropriate people. Make an analysis of each team member to determine if every individual is not only on the same page, but also ready for and skilled in accomplishing the task at hand. If someone on your team has the potential to hinder performance or is incapable of carrying out necessary responsibilities, says Rod Ricciardi, it may be time for a change.

Allow Freedom, but Designate Barriers. Teams need a little elbow room, says Rod Ricciardi, in order to infuse creativity and innovation into the collaborative process. This doesn’t mean, however, that certain behavioral boundaries shouldn’t be in place. Be sure, says Rod Ricciardi, to inform your team of the rules beforehand, as well as the flexibility their allowed when designing solutions or brainstorming.

Keep Communication Open. Give your team members, says Rod Ricciardi, ample opportunity to exchange feedback and share constructive criticism with one another. It’s also important, he says, to keep your own door open to team concerns, and to encourage your members to share their opinions and ideas whenever necessary.