Chapter 2: Communicating to Build High-Performing Teams (LO2)

Effective teamwork is essential in most professional environments. Whether you’re leading a project, participating in a team meeting, or working across departments, your ability to communicate clearly and respectfully shapes both team dynamics and results. This chapter will help you build the communication skills needed to support strong, inclusive, and productive teams.

You’ll start by exploring what helps teams function well and how to foster a respectful team culture. You’ll also learn to recognize both helpful and unhelpful team roles, and you’ll develop key group leadership skills—like asking thoughtful questions and clarifying conversations—that help everyone contribute. The chapter ends with a practical approach to team problem solving, equipping you to lead or participate in collaborative decision-making. Each section builds your confidence and ability to communicate effectively in diverse team settings.