Idea File Fall 2024

28 | Feature: Teamwork

TEAMS IN ACTION Every deadline cycle looks different, but usually, each team works on three-to-four spreads or a combination of spreads and tasks, like portrait section mods, club photo pages content, short profiles, etc. After we assign spreads, the teams get to work. The team lead decides what content will be covered on each spread and what tasks the team needs to complete. This list of tasks and content is written on a pre-made “Deadline Spread Progress” Google Doc template for easy reference and tracking as the deadline progresses. On that same document, the team divides assignments as evenly as possible among staff members and adds their names next to tasks on the “Spread Progress” document. This allows for individual contributions based on specialization. The team structure promotes shared responsibility, ensuring if one member falters or faces an unexpected absence, others can step in to maintain progress. This collective approach also prevents burdens from falling solely on one person.

TEAM LEADS Every team is led by a team lead, a privileged leadership position my students look forward to fulfilling in addition to their roles as

writers, photographers or point people. I try to keep team leads consistent throughout the year so they can refine their leadership skills as time goes on. However, flexibility is key. I’ve needed to switch up team leads mid-year for a variety of reasons in the past. Previous experience is a must when it comes to team leads. Since I rely on them heavily to mentor their teammates and jump into action during deadlines, I require experience from either a previous year on staff or previous deadlines if they are tapped into the role mid-year. The team lead role serves as a stepping stone for future editorial positions, offering invaluable leadership experience. When students use this opportunity to become editors-in training, I can identify those who excel under pressure and those who may need further development in leadership.

So how long do these teams stay together? I prefer to switch teams every other deadline cycle. This allows time for members to familiarize themselves with each other’s work styles and skills. However, after deadlines, I often sense the itch for my staff to start working with fresh faces. Allowing a

periodic switch up allows more relationships to build, strengthening the bond of the staff.

Meet Me Halfway. During a 50% deadline check-in, a team meets with the editors-in-chief to discuss the progress of their spread. At the 50% check-in, teams needed to have 50% of their content placed on the spread. They then showed the editors their progress and discussed what needed to be done to finish the spread. Photos by Julia Walker, CJE