Which of the following is a key characteristic of effective teams?

A key characteristic of effective teams is having clear goals and objectives. This clarity helps team members understand what they are working toward and fosters a sense of direction and purpose. When team members are aligned around common goals, they are more likely to cooperate and collaborate effectively. Clear objectives also allow for better resource allocation, performance tracking, and assessment of progress, ultimately leading to improved outcomes.

In effective teams, the focus is on collective achievement rather than individual performance, as teamwork thrives on collaboration. Additionally, while some degree of structure can be beneficial, overly rigid hierarchies can inhibit open communication and flexibility, which are essential for resolving conflicts and fostering innovation within the team. Lastly, maintaining open lines of communication is crucial for team dynamics; a lack of communication leads to misunderstandings, duplicative efforts, and inefficiencies, undermining the team's effectiveness. Thus, clear goals and objectives fundamentally support the overarching success of a team.