Role of the Team Leader

It is possible that the position of the team leader , especially the firstline team leader is one of the most vital yet underestimated positions in any organisation. The people in these positions form the link between their teams and the rest of the organisation.In this position there are huge conflicting pressures. This person is still regarded by their team as one of them, their spokesperson, who role it is to champion their cause with the management. Mangers, however see them a junior management, their representative, who role is to ensure the team comply with company strategies and to translate the managers wishes into actions. The position is like a person trying to straddle a chasm, with one foot on either side. The wider the chasm, the more uncomfortable the position becomes. The operate effectively in this position, the team leader needs to learn how to narrow the gap.Themes covered include- Communication- Considering colleagues- Influencing others- Leadership- Teamwork