One of the most talked about and important elements of success in today’s business world is teamwork. The analogy with a sports team is more than coincidental. A winning team, whether on a ballfield or in an office, has developed collaboration and personal involvement to a fine art—to the benefit of all the teammates. Some workers, however, are uncomfortable with the idea of sharing both the work and the rewards of their job with others.

Common Myths Of Teamwork

"I always work better alone."

Most jobs these days require some degree of cooperation with coworkers and with supervisors. The team concept simply substitutes a hierarchical approach (upper, middle and lower management) with a more democratic approach. If you mean you like to work with minimal supervision, that style may still be possible when you’re part of a team. And if you need help with anything, you won’t have to go hunting for outside expertise. Of course, in any job, it helps to get along with others.

"A team is just a group of people doing the same thing."

On the contrary, a "group" is a collection of individuals with a common function. But a team has a common goal. And teammates support each other in achieving it. Unlike group members, teammates have input into the formation of goals and are encouraged to make suggestions on how to achieve them. Working cooperatively, team members also resolve conflicts among themselves more quickly and satisfactorily.

"A team leader is simply a supervisor. He or she tells you what to do."

The team leader, in fact, encourages teammates to suggest goals and standards. The leader doesn’t waste time solving problems that could be handled more effectively by team members. The leader participates in problem-solving rather than dominating it. Some managers simply bring team members together and let the team "happen" with very little outside interference. These are called self-directed work teams.

"If I have a good idea, another team member may steal it."

That’s unlikely since all your teammates will hear your idea from your own lips at the same time. Not only will you get credit for your idea, they may find ways for you to improve on it.

"Teams have too many meetings."

Teams may, in fact, have fewer meetings than traditional management or departmental groups, because the members who do the actual work may be clearer on the roles and common goals. When teams do have meetings, they’re often of the "brainstorming" variety, which can be a lot more fun and productive than traditional meetings.

Teamwork Works—When You Want It To

Switching to work teams isn’t always easy. Many people naturally resist change. But when teams are in place, they usually make a positive difference. Teamwork works.

A team can get a lot more done than can the same number of people working separately. What’s more, teamwork can stimulate higher levels of creativity, efficiency and commitment. Self-esteem also often rises, because team members boost each other. Best of all, job satisfaction is much higher, because when the team wins, you win, too.

If your company is switching to team management—or already has it in place—welcome aboard. It’s bound to make a positive difference in your professional life.

This publication is for general informational purposes only and it is not intended to provide any reader with specific authority, advice or recommendations. Where you deem necessary, we suggest that you seek advice regarding your particular situation from the appropriate professional.

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