Stages of Team Formation

Introduction

• New team members don't always work well together from the start.
• Psychologist Bruce Tuckman identified four stages of team formation in the mid '60s.
• These stages are Forming, Storming, Norming, and Performing.

Forming Stage

• Team members are generally positive and polite.
• Some members may feel anxious.
• Efforts are made to get to know each other.

Storming Stage

• Team members push against boundaries.
• Conflicts arise due to differences in personalities and working styles.
• Frustration with others' approaches.
• Some members may question team goals and avoid tasks.
• Some teams may never progress past this stage.

Norming Stage

• Differences begin to be resolved.
• Team members build on each other's strengths.
• Respect for leadership increases.

Performing Stage

• Team achieves goals without friction.
• Leader can delegate more and focus on individual development.

Leadership Tips

• Leaders can help speed up the process of reaching the Performing stage.
• Guidance through each stage is essential.
• Additional resources are available to learn more about guiding teams through these stages.