Communication is arguably the most important criteria for a team to exist. Without communication we can't share a goal, distribute tasks or celebrate a success. 

In this epidsode, Andrew introduces research which considers how teams are created through communication, and Mark reflects on the less obvious but powerful impact that cultural differences have on communication in teams.

In this episode we talk about:

• Teams are constituted through communication - the way team members talk to each other forms the substance of the team's work. This is called the "communicative constitution of teams" (CCT).
• Communication happens on multiple levels in teams - strategic, tactical, operational, real-time. Different cadences of communication serve different purposes.
• Teams are nested structures of individuals, pairs, triads, groups. Communication flows through these structures.
• Cultural differences affect how communication is interpreted. Teams should be explicit about communication norms to avoid misunderstandings.
• Conventions of language can negatively impact teams if not consciously examined. New team members can provide an outside perspective.
• Checklists are a form of standardized communication that represent strategic priorities, not incompetence.

Something to Share

• The Culture Map by Erin Meyer
• An Officer Not a Gentleman by Mandy Hickson
• The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande

Chapters
00:00:00 - Introductions

00:01:57 - Communicative constitution of teams (CCT)

00:07:29 - Communication is a necessity for teamwork

00:09:39 - Two dimensions in tension

00:14:45 - Cultural differences in communication

00:16:20 - Negative impact of language conventions

00:19:10 - The disruptive power of language

00:25:45 - Checklists

00:34:14 - Teams are nested structures

00:42:48 - But teams rarely form themselves

00:48:59 - Cultural differences in communication

01:03:50 - It's hard to recognise culture when you're in it

01:06:45 - Creative industries vs tech industries

01:13:43 - Does anyone want a cup of tea?

01:15:48 - Takeaways

Thanks for listening!

Music by Tom Farrington