To provide a guideline, here are five components which are valuable, if not critical, in all successful teams:

• Common purpose
• Open and honest communication
• Trust
• Diversity
• Fun 

Common purpose

As mentioned above, a common purpose keeps all team members heading in the same direction. To build great teams, get clear on the purpose of your team and communicate this to all team members.

Open and honest communication

Communicating openly and honestly is critical to team effectiveness and sustainability. Many people find it difficult to share all – the good, bad and the ugly. Being able to put it all on the table reduces misplaced assumptions and clarifies each other’s opinions.