What is the success pattern for leading a successful v-team?  I asked one of my mentors, a seasoned softie for his take on what are the keys to a successful v-team.  Here is what he had to say:

• you're building a coalition -- not just a vteam
• make sure everyone is committed ... not just involved (see Turning Chickens into Pigs)
• get commitments and support from their leadership
• do an "exec" vision scope and milestone reviews
• give the team members the credit
• show up as a leader who is worth following - defend them, work for them, help them succeed -- you are working with people that you may want to follow you one day