Team Tension Thermometer

What participants gain

• Participants will be able to articulate their perception of the team's tension level.
• Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the factors contributing to team tension.
• Participants will identify potential areas for improvement and solutions.

Materials needed

• Whiteboard or flip chart
• Markers
• Sticky notes (optional)
• Pre-printed tension scale (1-10)
• Timer

How to run Team Tension Thermometer, step by step

1. Introduce the activity and its purpose (5 min).
2. Explain the tension scale (1-10) and provide clear definitions for each level (2 min).
3. Ask participants to anonymously indicate their perception of the team's tension level on the scale (5 min).
4. Share the results with the group and facilitate a discussion about the underlying issues contributing to the tension (10 min).
5. Summarize the key themes and insights that emerge from the discussion (3 min).
6. Conclude the activity and transition to the next method (2 min).
7. Encourage participants to write down the first word that comes to mind when they think about team tension on a sticky note (2 min).
8. Ask participants to place the sticky note on the tension scale at the appropriate level (1 min).
9. Facilitate a brief discussion on why participants placed their sticky notes where they did (5 min).
10. Thank participants for their honest feedback and participation (2 min).

Facilitator tips

• Emphasize anonymity to encourage honest participation.
• Use visual aids to clearly illustrate the tension scale.
• Encourage participants to share their rationale behind their ratings in a respectful manner.
• Be prepared to address any strong emotions that may arise during the discussion.
• Summarize the key themes and insights that emerge from the activity.

Common challenges

• Participants may be hesitant to share their honest opinions due to fear of judgment. Emphasize the importance of anonymity and psychological safety.
• Some participants may dominate the discussion. Use a talking stick or other facilitation techniques to ensure equal participation.
• The tension scale may be interpreted differently by different participants. Provide clear definitions and examples to ensure a common understanding.
• Participants may focus on individual issues rather than team dynamics. Redirect the discussion to focus on broader team-level themes.

Running it virtually

Use a polling feature in Zoom or Microsoft Teams to collect anonymous tension ratings. Share the results in real-time and facilitate a virtual discussion.

Expected results

A clear understanding of the team's perceived tension level and the underlying issues contributing to it. Identification of key areas for improvement and potential solutions.

Build a session around Team Tension Thermometer

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