The Five Dysfunctions of a Team
A Leadership Fable
Patrick M. Lencioni
Teamwork is at the heart of any successful organisation, yet many teams struggle with misalignment, conflict avoidance, or a lack of accountability. In The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, Patrick Lencioni explores why this happens and what leaders can do to create a stronger, more cohesive team.
Rather than presenting dry leadership theory, Lencioni delivers his insights through a compelling fable. The story follows Kathryn Petersen, a newly appointed CEO, as she faces the challenge of turning around a dysfunctional leadership team. Through her experiences, readers see first-hand the common pitfalls that prevent teams from reaching their full potential.
Lencioni identifies key barriers that undermine teamwork, from a lack of trust to a focus on individual success over collective results. His model is easy to understand and highly applicable across industries. Whether you're a school leader, a business executive, or part of a professional learning team, the lessons in this book will resonate.
One of the book’s strengths is its accessibility. Lencioni writes with clarity, avoiding unnecessary jargon, and the narrative keeps you engaged from start to finish. It’s not just a book for leaders—anyone working in a team can benefit from its insights. The practical framework provides a roadmap for building stronger relationships, fostering open dialogue, and driving shared commitment.
If you've ever been frustrated by a team that just can't seem to work together, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team is a must-read. It offers more than just theory—it challenges you to reflect on your own team dynamics and take actionable steps towards improvement.
