What is a key characteristic of an effective team?

An effective team is characterized by clear communication and defined roles, which are essential for promoting collaboration and ensuring that all members understand their specific contributions to the group's objectives. Clear communication fosters an environment where ideas can be shared openly, leading to better problem-solving and innovation. Additionally, when roles are well-defined, team members can focus on their responsibilities, reduce overlap, and clarify expectations, which enhances efficiency and accountability.

The other characteristics mentioned do not support effective teamwork. Unilateral decision-making disregards the input and perspectives of other team members, which can lead to disengagement and lack of commitment. Strong competition among members can create a divisive atmosphere rather than collaboration, undermining the team's overall goals. Similarly, restricting participation to senior members can limit diverse ideas and perspectives that are crucial for a team’s success, as involvement from all levels typically leads to more creative solutions and a greater sense of ownership among all team members.