How does a great team member relate to other team members?
A great team member always keeps in mind that he is part of a team. He is part of something that is larger than himself. The team does not exist to help him reach his goals; instead, he is there to help the team reach its goals. A great team member:
- Is a peacemaker: If you are at odds with a team member, take the initiative to resolve the conflict. If you see two team members in conflict with each other, determine what you can do to help.
- Is positive: Who do you enjoy being around—positive people or negative people? Instead of having a “woe is me” attitude at work, encourage team members with a “we can do it” attitude. Instead of criticizing team members and bosses, compliment the members of your team. It can be done without sounding like a corny cliché.
- Involves the entire team: The great team member doesn’t hog the spotlight or dominate the discussion table, and he works to keep anyone else from doing the same. Work to get the input of all team members, and try to encourage everyone on your team to contribute in their area level of expertise. Don’t be satisfied with an 11-10 vote on a major decision; when it’s possible, try to get everyone on the same page, so that there’s nothing holding your team back.
- Takes responsibility: When a major project comes up, a great team member doesn’t back off and let everyone else do the work. And when he takes a job, a great team member comes through and finishes his part.
Perhaps most importantly, a great team member serves the other members of the team. Listen to your team members and understand their needs and their wants. What can you do to help the people on your team? Is there a new team member that you can help acclimate to the workplace? Can you offer your expertise to help another team member finish their project? A great team member puts the team above himself, and consequently, he will help his team members even when it is inconvenient.