Q I've been in a management role for some years, and have one area that particularly challenges me. I'm a quiet person, and while I'm good at the work assignment and staff development parts of my job, I have a hard time with the "team spirit" aspects. Any suggestions to make this easier?
A Draw on your current strengths, and use the strengths of others on your team, too.
The inner game
First of all, take a moment to acknowledge your strengths as a leader. Being able to keep work flowing smoothly and to help each team member develop are essential skills. Success in these areas provides the foundation for high morale -- all the happy hours in the world can't make it up if these are missing.
As you consider ways to bolster your skills in this other area, take care not to have a negative view of the situation. Catch yourself if you're thinking "why can't I..." and change it to "how can I..." It's a subtle difference, but bringing positive energy to the situation will create a much better outcome.
Now, consider the ideal team environment. What would more "team spirit" look like and feel like day-to-day? Is it related to camaraderie in routine interactions or work related social events? Or is it about having more energy in the workplace? If you aren't sure, think about examples you've seen, either in your past or on other teams that you've observed. And consider whether this sense of ideal is truly related to team needs so that you don't try to fix something that isn't broken.
Finally, consider the resources that you have at hand. Look internally -- perhaps there are ways you could grow that would be helpful. Also consider the inclinations of others on your team, as well as resources your company might have.
The outer game