Working Together for a Common Goal
11th October, 2016
Not everyone enjoys working with other people. Some prefer to work by themselves with an attitude of “if I want something done well, I’ll just do it myself”.
However, a true team player is a person that can be counted on to do his or her part of the work and be relied on to complete tasks, as well as working co-operatively with others.
A team is a dedicated group who are supportive of collaboration in order to achieve a common goal through mutual knowledge and skill sharing. Working as team members all with the same goal requiring different skills to complete a common puzzle, can obtain amazing results.
When we work together in an atmosphere of trust and accountability towards a common goal, we focus on the tasks to be done. This focus of resources overcomes barriers, helps to identify new opportunities, and builds a momentum that leads to four major benefits
- better problem solving
- greater productivity
- more effective use of resources
- success!
There is no big secret in being a good team player. First of all, it is important to have respect for all the members who are working with you. Remember, you don’t need to like them, but you do need to respect them. Do not ever speak to someone, or do something to someone, that you would not like to be done to yourself.
In many situations, we have to rely on other people to assist us and therefore we have to trust each other.
Here are a few tips for working collaboratively to obtain success
- Encourage others Encourage free thinking and discussion. Never discount or ridicule other’s ideas. Also, take each team-member seriously, never making assumptions about someone’s ignorance or knowledge.
- Coach If you are good at something, coach or train another person on it. Sharing knowledge only enhances it, never the opposite. Teach a man how to fish to feed him for a lifetime!
- Be generous Give credit where it is due and never hold back on a compliment. Never take credit for what is not your work.
- Build relationships To forge relationships, have a friendly and open disposition. Do not ever speak about someone behind his or her back, and never gossip or speak in a sarcastic or judgemental way. If you have something to say about someone, say it to their face or not at all.
- Allow others to grow Assist and support them but don’t do their job for them. Be supportive and allow others to learn from their mistakes so that they may grow and succeed in their role.
- Less arrogance We all like to think that we are the best or the most vital cog in a wheel but it is important to let other people do their jobs without interference or criticism.
- Maintain a positive outlook You must have optimism if you are going to take on any challenges in life. Pessimism only makes problems seem even harder and sucks the motivation and energy right out of you. Negativity is also contagious and weakens those around you.
- Be open to change and learning If you listen carefully with an open mind, you will learn new things from your colleagues. Be willing to keep learning and changing.
Lastly, try to understand your role and it’s impact on the bigger picture. Individuals or teams that work in a vacuum with little access or communication with other groups, will inhibit growth.
When people work together in an open and collaborative manner, growth and success will follow.