Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

"You can do what I cannot do. I can do what you cannot do. Together, we can do great things"

Mother Teresa

Photo Credit: Free From Wix

Teamwork is essential in the workplace. Every department has a team and each person on the team has a specific role. But how can we ensure we are promoting positive and effective teamwork throughout the department?

According to an article on smallbusiness.chron.com, open and respectful communication is the first key to successful teamwork, “In positive team environments, people express ideas, opinions and even problems … and teams understand that information must be passed within the organization to accomplish the overall goals.”

Infinitegrowth.com.au talks about the 5 elements of effective teamwork. These consist of leadership, responsibilities, communication, conflict resolution and a positive attitude.

Ask yourself if you are a team player. Someone who is a true and effective team player understands that there are team goals. Throughout the team, everyone needs to have a role assigned to him or her but everyone still needs to work together cohesively. “The results that you will receive from working effectively together as a team are many. These include a positive team spirit, increased productivity, high-quality work achieved and objectives met. Effective teamwork results in success.”

Another aspect is encouraging your co-workers. “A core element of teamwork is building those on the team, because when one person succeeds, everyone is closer to success,” says smallbusiness.chron.com. You want to be able to validate their contribution to the team. Even if what they contributed wasn’t exactly what you needed, still acknowledge it and make suggestions on how they can improve next time. This is something I learned while being a part of numerous teams throughout college both in sports and clubs. Showing individuals that you understood their contribution to the team allows them to feel important and included. By making suggestions and giving feedback, it allows them to make an educated conclusion as well as have an extended understanding on what they can improve on.