9 roles to build a well-balanced team
Discover how each role enhances collaboration and helps build a highly productive team for 2025.
Building a successful team isn't about bringing talented people together; it's about bringing together roles that complement each other in the most productive and beautiful way. The question is: how do you create this puzzle where every piece fits perfectly and works smoothly?
Dr. Meredith Belbin, a famous researcher and management consultant, defines nine clusters of behavioral attributes that lead teams to progress. We inherit this view but want to make minor suggestions and simplify it.
So, what are the roles every team needs? Let's explore nine team portraits that help in building a balanced team.
Leader
Every team needs a leader to guide the way. This person takes charge, sets the vision, and ensures everyone is aligned with the team’s goals. A good leader inspires trust, motivates team members, and keeps everyone focused on the bigger picture.
Can be recognized for
- Making decisions.
- Being driven by motivation.
- Communicating clearly.
Planner
The planner is the team's organizer, the one who sets deadlines, coordinates schedules, and ensures the team stays on track. They make sure the project runs smoothly by creating clear plans and timelines.
Can be recognized for
- Time management.
- Organization.
- Attention to detail.
Communicator
This is the person who ensures everyone is in the loop. They're great at listening, explaining things clearly, and making sure messages don't get lost in translation. The communicator is often the glue that holds the team together, especially when working remotely.
Can be recognized for
- Active listening.
- Empathy.
- Clarity in communication.
Innovator
This is the creative thinker on the team. They come up with fresh ideas, solve problems creatively, and think outside the box. This role is essential for teams that want to stay ahead of the curve and continuously improve.
Can be recognized for
- Creativity.
- Problem-solving.
- Open-mindedness.
Analyst
Every team needs someone who's great with data, research, and analyzing information. The analyst digs into the numbers, spots trends, and provides insights that help the team make better decisions.
Can be recognized for
- Analytical thinking.
- Data interpretation.
- Research skills.
Supporter
The supporter is the cheerleader of the team. They boost morale, encourage teammates, and provide emotional support when things get tough. This role is often overlooked, but it's essential for maintaining a positive team atmosphere. They may be great as HRs.
Can be recognized for
- Empathy.
- Positivity.
- Conflict resolution.
Executor
This is the person who gets things done. The executor is focused, efficient, and driven to complete tasks. They're great at taking plans and turning them into reality, ensuring deadlines are met and projects are delivered.
Can be recognized for
- Focus.
- Efficiency.
- Goal orientation.
Quality Checker
The quality checker is detail-oriented and ensures the final output is up to standard. They catch mistakes, provide feedback, and ensure the project meets the team's quality expectations.
Can be recognized for
- Attention to detail.
- Critical thinking.
- Quality assurance.
Tech-Savvy
Having someone tech-savvy is a must. The tech expert knows how to use the latest tools, troubleshoot issues, and keep the team's technology running smoothly.
Can be recognized for
- Technical knowledge.
- Problem-solving.
- Adaptability to new tools.
Balanced teams use balanced team collaboration tools
Teams work better when they're using the right tools. Tools like Orchestra, which eliminate busywork and streamline tasks, put teams in focus by helping align goals, manage changes, share files, and more.
With Orchestra, teams get:
- Clean, productive topic-based communication.
- Built-in video calls & automatic notes.
- Easy & lightweight task boards.
- Collaboration spaces & file-sharing.
- An AI assistant in every chat, 24/7.
We don't say you have to exhibit all team roles simultaneously. The first step is to be aware of the existing types and consider the team’s objectives. Then, work out which tasks need to be undertaken.
It's unfortunate when people confuse one role for another. Imagine someone who's a planner on the team but possesses all the skills needed to be a leader. To notice that, one must be aware of what each role entails to avoid such misalignments.
Also, knowing the types of possible roles gives people a greater understanding of their strengths, which leads to more effective communication within the team. After all, it's the team that drives work and makes a difference in the workplace.