Teamwork on tap: Why hiring works best

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the papers in context.

Findings

The paper finds were that acquiring good players is easy. Getting such individuals to perform together was always the hardest part. This sentiment continues to ring true in many different contexts, business included. If building an effective team presented a tough challenge for the former US baseball coach, then surely the task is just as daunting for company leaders hoping to succeed within equally competitive environments. In a world that often demands instant gratification, it is easy to forget that creating a successful blend takes time. Nevertheless, some organizations remain loyal to the belief that throwing together a few talented individuals is all that is needed. How wrong this assumption can be. Key performers owe at least part of their success to the team and conditions around them, so isolating them from familiar environments often results in such performers losing their spark. One ideal solution is to hire a complete team lock, stock and barrel.

Practical implications

The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.

Originality/value

The paper saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to‐digest format.

Citation

(2008), "Teamwork on tap: Why hiring works best", Development and Learning in Organizations, Vol. 22 No. 1, pp. 27-31. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777280810840102