Working In A Team
Environment
BASIC COMPETENCY
How to Work Effectively in a Team
Environment
A team environment is one in which brainstorming,
collaboration and joint projects are the norms. This type
of dynamic can be beneficial and rewarding if everyone
communicates well and pulls their weight. Working
effectively in a team environment requires tact,
patience, and a willingness to work in concert with
your colleagues.
Get Into the Right Mindset
When you work independently, you typically set your
schedule, tackle projects in a manner that suits your
preferences, and are solely responsible for outcomes. In a
team environment, ideas are shared, workloads divided, and
group consensus is required to act effectively when
determining project scope and direction. Understanding and
committing to this group dynamic puts you in the right
frame of mind for a teamwork environment.
Agree to Agree
Teams are expected to produce results, so team members
must all be on the same page when it comes to common
goals and objectives. Effective approaches involve an
identified project, an agreed-upon agenda of work, and a
division of labor. It is often helpful to designate one
member of the team as the group leader to facilitate
organization and provide direction.
Be Respectful of Each Other
You’re never going to agree with everyone in a team
environment. However, it’s important to be respectful of others'
opinions and to recognize that in a group, there is not one single
right way to approach a project. Raise legitimate questions or
concerns, but don’t belittle colleagues or call them out for what
you consider to be bad ideas. It's majority rule in most team
environments, so chances are if an idea is off base, others in the
group will speak up as well.
Don’t Be a Slacker
Even when specific roles and responsibilities are assigned to
team members, there’s going to be some overlap. Someone
will work a little more and someone will work a little less
than the others. While you shouldn’t jump in to pick up
every dropped ball on a project, make an effort to contribute
at 100 percent, meet deadlines, and be willing to lend a hand
to advance the team’s initiatives when needed.
Don’t Gossip About Others
Gossiping about team members only leads to a sense of
distrust, which can potentially derail the good work you’re
trying to accomplish. If you have a problem with a team
member, discuss it privately or involve your team leader.
Don’t segregate into smaller groups within the team. This
action only fragments efforts and creates an uncomfortable
and unproductive working environment.
Recognize the Contributions of
Others
There’s no “I” in team, but that doesn’t mean members
don’t like to be singled out for their positive efforts and
contributions. Acknowledge the work of others and
express your appreciation for their creativity and
insight. It infuses the team with enthusiasm and creates
a sense of camaraderie that is valuable as you work
collectively as a unit.
An environment of teamwork has the
potential to produce exceptional
results, as well as provide dynamic
and interesting work experiences.
Approach this type of opportunity
with tact, diplomacy and
professionalism to ensure optimal
results.
PRACTICING CAREER
PROFESSIONALISM
BASIC COMPETENCY
Professionalism is the conduct, behavior and attitude
of someone in a work or business environment. A
person doesn’t have to work in a specific profession to
demonstrate the important qualities and characteristics
of a professional. Professionalism leads to workplace
success, a strong professional reputation and a high
level of work ethic and excellence.
Here are 12 ways you
can develop and
practice
professionalism
1. Be productive
Use your time productively at work. Focus on
your job responsibilities and avoid getting
pulled into social media, web browsing and
phone activity while on the clock.
2. Develop a professional
image
Project a professional presence and dress
appropriately for your industry and
organization. A good rule of thumb is to dress
in the position you aspire to have.
3. Take the initiative
Ask for more projects to be given to you
or think of assignments that will meet
your organization's goals. You don’t
want to be under-utilized.
4. Maintain effective work
habits
Prioritize, plan and manage your assignments
and projects. Follow up and follow through
with your supervisor and team members.
5. Manage your time
efficiently
Establish priorities, set goals and create
action plans to meet deadlines.
6. Demonstrate integrity
Be accountable for your work and actions
while behaving ethically at all times.
7. Provide excellence
Produce work and results that reflect a
sense of pride and professionalism, often
exceeding expectations.
8. Be a problem-solver
When you run into problems and
obstacles take the time to brainstorm a
few solutions and alternatives before you
meet with your supervisor.
9. Be resilient
Develop coping skills to manage setbacks
and challenges with a positive and
constructive attitude.
10. Communicate effectively
Practice professional on-line, in person
and interpersonal communication skills.
11. Develop self-awareness
Learn to manage your emotions and gain
awareness of your emotional triggers so you
can manage your reactions positively and
productively. Accept and reflect on feedback
to assist as you learn and grow.
12. Build relationships
Network with colleagues, customers and
clients to build professional cordial
relationships, work on teams and
collaborate effectively.
