Juanita has just been asked to head a cross-functional team at work, assuming a directive role. Members of her team exhibit various behaviors: Tom speaks long and often, Robert tries to keep tensions low, Jim is never prepared, Monica constantly complains, and Kumar tries to make sure everyone is heard. As they meet the first couple of times, Robert and Kumar push to develop strategies to achieve their goals.
Discuss the various negative and positive roles found in the group. In what ways can the negative roles be diminished? At what stage of team development are Robert and Kumar operating, and what stages should the team go through before strategies are developed?

Answers will vary. The following roles are represented in the team:
a. Positive group roles:
i. Juanita-leader
ii. Robert-harmonizer
iii. Kumar-facilitator
b. Negative group roles:
i. Tom-dominator
ii. Jim-airhead
iii. Monica-detractor
Negative roles are extinguished as a group communicates openly about its goals, strategies, and expectations.
Robert and Kumar seem to be at the norming stage as they are involved in developing strategies and activities that promote goal achievement. The team could benefit by first spending time forming (becoming acquainted with each other and the assigned task) and storming (dealing with conflicting personalities and ideas). The team could then more effectively develop strategies to accomplish its tasks and more likely reach its optimal performance level.