How can software leaders build resilient teams? Is it a matter of org structure, skill cultivation, team culture or something else?
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I always encourage my team to follow the model of “fail fast and learn quick.” While individuals may adapt to change quickly, it can be challenging for teams because of their diverse backgrounds and cultures. Building resilience is about creating an environment where experimentation is encouraged and learning from mistakes is valued. This approach allows engineers to enhance their professional capabilities, contribute directly to the product, and develop resilience through continuous learning and adaptation.
As leaders, we must stand behind our teams and support their decisions. Reviewing decisions together and providing support is the foundation of a resilient team culture, which I consider the most important factor.
Fostering a resilient culture is essential. Teams need a sense of ownership, knowing that whatever happens, the team stands together. When mistakes occur, the approach should not be about assigning blame, but about stepping back, fixing the issue, and learning from it. This sense of ownership means the team is supportive and sees mistakes as opportunities rather than failures.
Prioritizing skill cultivation and mentorship within the team is also crucial. When new members join, they should feel a sense of belonging. Welcoming newcomers and helping them adjust ensures the team remains cohesive and effective. Additionally, teams should be adaptive to changes in structure or process. Rather than resisting change, teams should be proactive and ready to take on new challenges. With these principles in place, resilience becomes a natural outcome.
It is important to remember that a team is a group of people, and building resilience is about preparing for tough times, when pressure mounts and personal worries arise. The process of building resilient teams centers on developing strong relationships among team members. This sense of belonging is vital; teams need to know each other and be ready to support one another when challenges arise. Resilience must be built in advance — it cannot be summoned only in a crisis.
Beyond technical strategies, it is important for team members to spend time together, whether over lunch or coffee, to build empathy and understanding. Taking the time to learn about one another creates a supportive environment that underpins true team resilience.