Where did YOU attend Team Player School?

Jun 3, 2019

Where did YOU attend Team Player School?

Of course, we know that there is no such thing as Team Player School** but since we were children, we have been thrown on one team after another: soccer teams, scout teams, work teams, project teams, etc.  How did you learn how to be a good teammate?

Some of your teams probably function very well, some…. not so much. Some teams focus on collaborating toward a common goal, some waste time and energy on politics and destructive conflict.  What is the difference? It all starts with you!

“A strong team can take any crazy vision and turn it into reality.” ~John Carmack, co-founder id Software

It is highly likely you will continue to participate on teams throughout your lifetime as organizations discover the benefits of developing a culture of agility, collaboration, and teamwork.  Here are six tips on how you can make a difference on your teams:

  1. Examine Your Thoughts: When you learn you will be part of a new team is your first thought a) “Great I love to collaborate and exchange new ideas” or b) “I will probably end up doing all the work because my coworkers avoid responsibility?” Start with positive thoughts and intentions for your new team.
  2. Give the Benefit of the Doubt: Instead of jumping to conclusions about the intentions and aptitudes of others, clarify situations in a respectful way. Create a safe space for everyone to discuss misunderstandings in a non-judgmental way.
  3. Listen to Different Viewpoints: Speak up about your ideas but also encourage other team members to voice their ideas and concerns to uncover the very best solutions. Keep debate focused on concepts and ideas instead of personal criticism.
  4. Aim for Clarity and Buy-in on Decisions: Do you leave meetings confident that everyone is committed to decisions? You can contribute to buy-in and clarity by summarizing your understanding of final decisions before the meeting and then demonstrating commitment afterward.
  5. Offer and Accept Feedback: Follow through on your commitments and when you can’t, accept feedback and help from others.  Offer respectful feedback to your team mates on their obligations and be available to provide assistance when needed.
  6. Focus on Collective Results: You may have achieved your individual goals, but if the team doesn’t attain collective objectives, it is not a successful team. It is important to keep focused on not only your tasks but also on the progress towards team goals.
“Great things in business are never done by one person. They are done by a team of people.” Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple Inc

**Well, maybe there is such a thing as Team Player School!  I’m proud to announce the new program Five Behaviors of a Cohesive Team Personal Development. http://managementskillsinc.com/products/five-behaviors/ Look for your invitation to our July 23rd seminar launch. http://managementskillsinc.com/register/ Contact us at:  Deborah.Avrin@ManagementSkillsinc.com  972 881-5282.