How to Be a Top Notch Team-Player

“If you take out the team in teamwork, it’s just work. Now, who wants to do that?”      – Matthew Woodring Stover

We all know that teamwork is a big deal. Of course, it’s essential to a smooth running operation, but it’s also the key to an engaging culture and camaraderie among coworkers. So, what can you do to ensure a great team?

It begins by identifying what matters to you and then delivering that to the rest of the team.

Example #1

Let’s say being able to fulfill your responsibilities depends on John taking care of the preliminaries – by his deadline, so you can begin and finish your tasks on time. If John is late, you are stressed and working extra to do your assignment and pass it on to Niki, or you’re late too – and the project is continually delayed. Not fun and very frustrating, right?

So, choose to be Reliable. Ensure you understand the project, what the team needs to accomplish, and your role in its success. Then commit to doing everything you can to make it happen. Do your part, plus a little. Meet your deadlines with room to spare.

Example #2

You walk into a meeting (or clock in and get ready to start your day) and realize that everyone is brainstorming about an issue that no one shared with you. So now you have to backtrack fast, trying to catch up on the run, and help make wise choices.

So, choose to keep your Communication Skills in top form. It begins with listening. Ensure you understand what is being said and communicated by silence. Do your part to inform. Share all pertinent info with everyone who needs to know. Be transparent, direct, and honest. If you mess up, then fess up. If it’s necessary to share constructive criticism, be positive and encouraging. Don’t ignore issues, but strive to address them in ways that encourage change and growth.

Example #3

The course of events takes a sudden change – whether it’s a change in the deadline, a team member experiencing a family emergency, or a variety of other ‘life-happens’ issues. Some of your team members are more involved in making excuses and pointing fingers than focusing on adapting to the new situation. This only adds to the stress.

So, choose to be Flexible. Every work environment encounters sudden changes from time to time. Rather than complain, find ways to acclimate. Recognize that different people with different backgrounds have different perspectives, causing them to look at the same situation –differently. Do your part to adapt and face the crisis together.

 We could share more examples, but we’re sure you’re getting the picture. If you appreciate committed involvement, collaboration, respect for boundaries, recognition, and appreciation, then that’s what you need to deliver.

At Career Concepts, we believe in the power of great teams. We have over 50 years of experience connecting quality team players with quality companies. So call today and let us help you put those team-playing skills in the right position for you!