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Do you use the terms "team" and "group" interchangeably? You're not alone, who thinks there is no difference between group and team!
So, what's the difference between a group and a team? It may come as a surprise to learn that there is actually a difference and making the distinction is important!
So What's The Difference Between Group and Team?
A team is composed of members who are linked by one or more common goals and shared accountability.
All for one, and one for all!
A group is a collection of individuals who each contribute and interact with each other to achieve a larger goal.
Let's get the job done!
Group vs Team: What Differentiates These Two?
Qualities of a team
Can have multiple or rotating leaders
Team members share responsibility for the final outcome
Focus is achieving collective goals
Members contribute to collective work products
The team discusses a problem, decides on a solution, and works on the solution collectively
Team members are interdependent
Qualities of a group
Has only one designated leader
Group members do not share responsibility for the final outcome
Focus is achieving individual goals
Members produce individual work products
The group discusses a problem, decides on a solution, and delegates tasks to individual group members
Group members are independent
Quiz
You are a fashion designer and you have a project where you need to design 5 outfits for a runway show, 3 outfits for special guests of your design house and an outfit for yourself for the final walk. Which of these will serve you best?
Having teams design for each sub-project works best as they focus on collectively on a specific goal as there is one final product. A single team will make the scope too wide, a group won't be as collaborative as is necessary, and it's too much work for one person!
Did you know?
This Byte was created by a volunteer professional that wanted to share this insight to help you succeed - no agenda, no cost.
The Difference Between a Group and a Team: Similarities
Qualities of both teams and groups
At least 2 people
Members need to interact
Thrive with face-to-face interaction
Focus on the achievement of an objective
Need leadership to operate
Are built on a foundation of sharing of information and resources
Both are valuable and necessary depending on the situation at hand!
Quiz
A _____ is a collection of people working to achieve a goal.
Members of a team focus on a collective goal, whereas a group members focus on smaller individual goals, but ultimately both are working toward a common goal of some kind.
Take Action
This could be you and your group or team:
Challenge yourself, and identify the difference between group vs team! The next time you need to work with others to solve a problem or achieve something:
This Byte has been authored by
Damilola Odubanjo
Learning and Development Associate