The Importance of Teamwork

Good teamwork structures provide your organization with a diversity of thought, creativity, perspectives, opportunities, and problem-solving approaches. A proper team environment allows individuals to brainstorm collectively, which in turn increases their success to problem solve and arrive at solutions more efficiently and effectively.

When there is good team synergy it increases productivity by providing quick feedback and multiple sets of skills come into play to support the work. When a team is functioning well it allows for efficient processes in the stages of designing, planning, and implementing.

Teamwork is almost indispensable in defining the success of any business. Let’s take a look at some examples of how and why you should start collaborating with your team.

• Teamwork Triggers Creativity. While teams can be creative, team creativity doesn’t just happen. The relationship between teamwork and creativity is complicated, and by understanding it you can be more effective as a team. When a team is rowing the boat in the same harmony it allows for co-workers to collaborate in an open-minded and non-judgemental environment. When this harmonistic environment is created it allows for co-workers to bounce ideas off each other, while delivering constructive criticism in a friendly manner.
• Team Communication is Key. The more collaboration your projects require the more assertive and intentional your communication should be. Every member of the team needs to take the initiative to communicate. When a team is not actively communicating, their work is at stake. It’s important for everyone to learn how to communicate effectively to improve teamwork. Learning how to communicate more effectively also means taking more notice. We should listen to each other and understand their perspective and what they are bringing to the table. This helps to collaborate in a respectful manner while still allowing one another to give transparent feedback. Most of the time we are eager to speak, but try to sit back and understand your co-worker’s perspective—they will be more sympathetic to your feedback and constructive criticism.
• Promote a Positive Office Culture. Culture defines how employees see themselves as contributors as well as how outsiders perceive your business. Good team players make good co-workers, which ultimately create a good culture. We spend more time with our co-workers than we do with our own families, so it’s important to enjoy being with those that we’re around constantly. Make sure that the culture you’re building actively benefits the overall goals of your business. Be transparent with your team about what the company is trying to accomplish and how. 

With everyone starting to head back into the office (post-pandemic) we can look to start implementing and shaping your company culture. Start by assessing your team’s needs then create an open forum for discussion on how to achieve those goals as a team. By getting everyone involved and on the same agenda it will create empowerment from an individual level that ultimately pulls together to create the bigger picture—the end product or service.

MVP

Megan Van Petten

Van Petten Group INC.