Tool 5: What key roles are you missing on your team?

Here is a summary of Meridith Belbin’s team roles [5] and a video on how it has influenced the teams John works with. 

Meredith Belbin developed the Belbin Team Roles. It identifies nine different roles individuals assume within a team. According to Belbin, each team role represents a unique set of strengths, weaknesses, and behavioural tendencies that contribute to the overall team dynamics and effectiveness. Note that I use the word ‘role’, not ‘position / title’. 

Here is a brief explanation for each role:

The Plant is a creative and innovative thinker who generates new ideas and solutions. They are imaginative and often provide unconventional perspectives. 

Resource Investigators are outgoing and enthusiastic individuals who excel in networking and gathering information from external sources. They explore opportunities and establish valuable connections. 

The Coordinator is a strong facilitator and organiser who ensures team members work together effectively. They have a diplomatic approach and excel in delegating tasks. 

Shapers are dynamic individuals who thrive in challenging situations. They push the team forward, set high standards, and encourage others to achieve their best. 

The Monitor Evaluator provides a critical and impartial perspective. They carefully analyse options, make objective assessments, and identify potential risks. 

Teamworkers are cooperative and supportive individuals who foster harmony within the team. They mediate conflicts, promote collaboration, and contribute to a positive team environment. 

Implementers are disciplined and efficient individuals who turn ideas into action. They are practical, organised, and ensure plans are executed effectively. 

Completer Finishers have an eye for detail and strive for perfection. They ensure tasks are completed on time and meet high-quality standards. 

Specialists possess specialised knowledge and skills that are crucial to the team’s success. They provide expertise in specific areas and contribute with technical proficiency. 

Belbin’s Team Roles highlights the importance of having a diverse team that encompasses individuals with different strengths and weaknesses. By understanding and leveraging these roles, teams can enhance their overall performance and effectiveness. Recognising and assigning team members to appropriate roles based on their natural tendencies can lead to improved collaboration, better decision-making, and increased productivity.

All of us can function in these roles, but you will have a natural tendency for 2 or 3 roles which energise you as opposed to draining you. Belbin is not focused on positions. Leadership is functional and who holds the position can shift based on lifecycle and need of the team. Therefore, position is over-rated. A secure leader is not bothered about position but is instead focused on function.

Watch the below video to hear how this has influenced John’s leadership.

5. Belbin, R. M. (1981). Management Teams: Why They Succeed or Fail. Butterworth-Heinemann.