Like the forming stage, when group members are around each other for the first time, they might seem uncomfortable or uncertain. This is normal. They are just getting to know each other. There is low trust and high anxiety about roles, norms, and culture.
During this early stage, relationships are more likely to be reserved and tentative. Group members communicate self-effacingly, and often start statements with phrases like "I think" or "In my view," to appear polite, and to avoid controversy and conflict.
People tend to reveal little information about themselves, preferring to find out what they can about other members of the group, and to work out how everyone "fits in." Especially as this is when judgements are first formed about each other.
How To Lead Through This Stage
- Outline specific tasks.
- Clearly outline team roles.
- Be transparent about how you lead, your strengths and weaknesses, to help build the foundations of a trusting relationship.
- Establish a decision-making process.
- Ensure feedback is provided not only from yourself but between team members.
A case study
At EA Sports they spend 5 minutes at the end of a meeting to provide feedback on how the team are working together and understand strengths and weaknesses within the team. This can help early on to make sure everyone is feeling comfortable and healthy relationships start to form within the team.
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