It is often easy to assume that everyone knows what they are doing, but it’s not always the case. And it’s almost always true that people are making assumptions about the role others are performing.

One simple way to get your team performing really well together (not just as individuals) is to have a session where they explain just that. Ideally close to the start of the project, get everyone together (physically or virtually) and then go round the room with everyone explaining their role on the project. You should include yourself (it may break the ice a bit, if you start) as often people new to projects aren’t clear on the PM’s role either! Explain what you will do, what others can expect from you, and what you expect of others.

I find a great way of doing this exercise is to discuss inputs and outputs. For each person in the room, have them explain what inputs to their role are required from others to do their job, and what they will produce as a result. Make sure you all know who will be producing your inputs for you and where your outputs are going. If you’re producing an output without a home, there may be an issue!

For further reading on roles and responsibilities, see our blog entry Staying in Lane here.