What are team norms?

Team norms refer to the informal guidelines that influence the behavior and expectations of group members. They emerge organically within a team and help establish a culture that can enhance collaboration and communication among members. These norms dictate how team members interact, make decisions, resolve conflicts, and support one another, ultimately shaping the dynamics of the group.

Norms can include elements like communication styles, work ethics, participation levels in discussions, and how feedback is given and received. Since they develop through shared experiences rather than being formally established, they play a crucial role in creating a cohesive and productive team environment. This informal structure allows team members to feel more comfortable expressing their opinions and helps to establish trust, which is vital for effective teamwork.

Other options suggest more rigid structures or concepts unrelated to the day-to-day dynamics of a team. For example, formal rules that govern group behavior would imply a strict and structured approach, contrasting the flexible and often implicit nature of team norms. Similarly, strict disciplinary measures and advanced theories of teamwork do not accurately capture the essence of what team norms represent in fostering a collaborative atmosphere.