Much of the work of a complex economy is now done by teams, task forces, and project groups. Multiple talents, experiences, and insights must often be blended to yield a product, service, or innovation that fulfills an organization’s mission.
People have been graded since kindergarten on “works and plays well with others”. If they think that they’ve progressed beyond that and now individual qualifications maximize career opportunities, they’d better be singular geniuses with no peers in their field. For everyone else, it pays to learn how to make an optimal contribution in a team setting.
Get the Knowledge Needed
Step 1 is to recognize that that others in the organization have knowledge or ability vital to achieving mutual goals.
Step 2 is to recognize that individuals and the organization will be better off if the desired product is the sum of the efforts of a group of capable people.
Two parallel paths should be pursued:
· Develop knowledge and capabilities relevant to the task as fully as possible; and
· Share the knowledge and capabilities as fully as possible.
Organizations, both private and public, have found it useful to enunciate missions and goals and often a philosophy as well. The more these are studied, the easier it becomes to understand how tasks or projects fit into the overall scheme.
Individual self development and participation in continuing education and training are essential in a world in which technology changes rapidly. Relevant formal and informal training, within and outside the organization, should be pursued. It is also essential to keep up with advances in knowledge by reading and participating in professional societies.
Broadening can be done by getting acquainted with specialists in other areas and become familiar with their work.
Using the Knowledge
The individual should never lose sight of the fact that the most important contribution one can make is to perform effectively the duties and responsibilities for which hired and paid.
Understanding that, here are some ways to maximize contributions as a team member:
· Share new knowledge gleaned from studies and experiences;
· Encourage others to do the same;
· Ask for help or advice when problems are encountered;
· Offer to help a colleague swamped with work;
· Make suggestions on improving work routine; e.g. number and format of meetings;
· Raise questions when work may be veering off course;
· Think of ways for the group to relax or enjoy recreation; and
· Share credit generously and appropriately when commended.
Realistically, there are teams which do not function well for reasons beyond anyone's control. Nevertheless, those who give generously to the common effort can only gain from that effort.
David Hornestay - DavidH began a career as a freelancer after 34 years in government management. Keeping a hand in as a consultant in federal human ...
Join the Conversation