52 Weeks: Week 17 - Operating in the Matrix – Pitfalls

Focus Question:  What can you do to avoid the pitfalls of matrix teams?
 
Description
Conflict may also be more prevalent. Think about these different conflicts which are present in matrix relationships. (Mentioned first in Teams365 #601: https://www.potentialsrealized.com/teams-365-blog/teams365-601-potential-sources-of-conflict-in-matrix-teams)

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Here's a list of potential sources of conflict in matrix teams include:

• Conflict between local level priorities and global or project priorities
• Conflict between direction and style of local leader and matrix leader
• Style conflict
• Potential conflict on multiple levels around communication styles - direct versus indirect communication - (refer to Geert Hofstede's Culture scales)
• Conflict created by working across multiple time zones which can impact meeting times, and perceived favoritism
• Conflict around resourcing (perceived and real)
• Conflict around team membership - my "local" team and my "project" team
• Conflict around team culture - how things are done on different teams and what's acceptable and not

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Activity
Consider the matrix relationships you are part of. What are the pitfalls you might encounter? The conflicts which might exist? What can you do to create an antidote around them?

​For more on this topic check out:
Teams365 blog posts on this topic over at Potentials Realized.com.
Including:

• Teams365 #595 – Matrix Teams – Where’s the Loyalty?
• Teams365 #596 – Matrix and Goal Setting Teams365 #602 – Matrix Management – Top Tips

All the best,
​Jennifer

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Jennifer Britton
Co-host of the Remote Pathways Podcast
Potentials Realized – Coaching, Training and Consulting Services for remote teams, leaders and professionals 
 
Check out the most recent Remote Pathways Podcast Episode, where we explore the people, places and processes of exceptional remote work. You can listen to the latest episode here, or on your favorite podcast player.
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