This article is more aimed at Scrum Masters, but I think there are key take aways that can be applied to any leadership role.
Facilitator first
Remember as a scrum master you are a facilitator first. You are not there to solve problems for the team.
You might know all the answers, but you can’t give solutions to the team if you expect them to grow. Its OK to support the team, give them input or advise, but you should be helping them make the decisions.
One of the keys to growing a team is empowerment and autonomy.
If you find yourself saying “let’s do this” or “you should do this”, and ask more:
- Why do you think we should do that?
- Do you think that is the best thing we can do?
- How do you think we can prove that is the case?
- Do we need any additional information?
- Do we need to consult with any other stakeholders?
- What are the alternatives?
- What is the worst case scenario if we made that decision?
- Whats the minimum we can do and get the most value?
The team will grow if you don’t solve problems
By inspiring the team to think for them selves, and not stop asking questions; but start to ask questions to each other and not to the Scrum Master, the team will build confidence, communication and you will also notice morale will remain high. You can then step in when things go sour or the team starts to fumble.
You will notice that the team will gradually become less dependant on going to the Scrum Master for a solution.
Social Media
Please check me out on social media:
