The 2008 Summer Olympics are quickly approaching, and soon millions of people world-wide will be cheering from their respective corner of the world. Part of the success of each team will depend on individual athletes and on their determination and hard work. The other part will depend on the support and coaching provided to the team as a whole.

There are many lessons to be learned from the achievements of the Olympic participants; these can be incorporated in your daily work successes and management of projects. Here are six steps to consider in championing your players and leading a winning team.

1. Set the Rules
People need guidelines to keep things flowing smoothly. As coach, it is your job to set the ground rules, including how decisions will be made. Will it be up to the leader or will the majority rule? What are the project’s objectives and what are the boundaries? How will you measure the project’s success? What are the assignments and who will be handling each task?

Brainstorming the rules together with the team can produce great results because it will:

  • Ensure every detail is covered
  • Generate excitement about the project
  • Discuss issues and questions up front so that there aren’t any surprises later on

    • Read more at Developer.com.