A multi-team culture has become the norm in UK workplaces

A study, from workplace psychologists OPP, shows a multi-team culture has become ingrained in the UK, with professionals asked to play many roles in different teams. More than a third (37.5%) of people prefer to take the role of organisational lead, with less than a quarter (24%) putting their hand up to lead teams. Only 2% of people enjoyed responsibility to keep track of team developments.

The study shows 81% of workers believe personality has the biggest impact on the effectiveness of these teams. But only 7% of people hold the traditional view that long established teams are the most successful.

Gil Parsons, lead trainer at OPP, said: "This study confirms what a lot of us are living through at work; the steady rise of the team as a defining characteristic of British business. Understandably, these teams are almost always put together on the basis of the skills of the individuals involved, but once they're formed it's personality that drives their success.

"A newly formed team has a great deal of potential, but a number of factors need to come into play to unlock it. Our study shows that most people feel personality heads that list of factors.

"Understanding the personalities of team members at the outset is crucial. What motivates them? What engages them in their work? How do they communicate most effectively? Answering these questions and ensuring the whole team is aware of them will go a long way to establishing the best way of working for that individual team.

"Understanding the personality of individuals within your workforce brings a lot of benefits. Identifying potential personality clashes, understanding personalities that work very well together, shaping your approach to get the most out of people - all of these outcomes make investment in understanding personality worthwhile."