Archetypes

In the context of teams, archetypes refer to recurring and recognizable patterns of behavior, roles, or personalities that members embody within the group dynamic. Understanding these archetypes can help in forming balanced teams, managing conflicts, and leveraging the strengths of each member. Here are three common team archetypes: Leaders, Innovators and Executors.

Incorporating these archetypes into team building and management can lead to more effective, harmonious, and high-performing teams.

Also you can refer to this source as written by the team at "WithYouWithMe" https://withyouwithme.com/solutions/our-talent-assessments/archetypes/

1. Leader

Characteristics:

• Takes charge and provides direction

• Motivates and inspires team members

• Makes decisions and takes responsibility for the outcomes

• Often seen as the face of the team

Strengths:

• Provides clear vision and goals

• Encourages team cohesion and productivity

• Good at crisis management and decision-making

Potential Weaknesses:

• Can become overly controlling or micromanaging

• May struggle with delegation and collaboration

2. Innovator

Characteristics

• Brings creative ideas and solutions to the table

• Challenges the status quo and looks for new ways to improve

• Thinks outside the box and is willing to take risks

• Often engaged in brainstorming and ideation sessions

Strengths

• Drives innovation and keeps the team forward-thinking

• Good at problem-solving and finding unique solutions

• Encourages experimentation and learning from failure

Potential Weaknesses

• May struggle with practical implementation and follow-through

• Can be perceived as impractical or unrealistic

3. Executor

Characteristics

• Focuses on getting tasks done and meeting deadlines

• Highly organized and detail-oriented

• Reliable and dependable in completing work

• Often handles the day-to-day operations and logistics

Strengths

• Ensures that plans are executed efficiently and effectively

• Maintains high standards of quality and accuracy

• Provides stability and consistency within the team

Potential Weaknesses

• May resist change or new ideas if they disrupt existing processes

• Can become overwhelmed with workload if not balanced with support

Importance of Team Archetypes

Balanced Teams: Understanding and leveraging different archetypes ensures a well-rounded team with diverse skills and perspectives.

Enhanced Collaboration: Recognizing the strengths and weaknesses of each archetype fosters better collaboration and minimizes conflicts.

Improved Performance: Teams that incorporate various archetypes are often more innovative, productive, and capable of adapting to challenges.

Applying Archetypes in Team Building

Assessment: Identify the archetypes within your team through observation, personality assessments, or feedback sessions.

Role Allocation: Assign roles and responsibilities that align with each team member's archetype, ensuring everyone is playing to their strengths.

Development: Provide training and support to help team members develop skills that complement their archetype and address any weaknesses.

Diversity: Aim to build teams with a mix of archetypes to balance creativity, execution, and leadership.

Summary Table

Implementation Tips

• Flexibility: These proportions are guidelines and should be adjusted based on specific industry, market conditions, and business goals.

• Skill Development: Invest in training and development to help team members expand their capabilities and balance the archetype mix as the company evolves.

• Role Clarity: Ensure that each archetype has clear roles and responsibilities to maximize their strengths and contributions to the team.