We’ve all heard it’s important to be a team player, but what does it really mean? Foremost, it means working for the good of the team, rather than your own individual goals. And, that means dropping the personal pronouns—because as you know, there is not “i” in teamwork!
Nobody wants to work with someone who is wrapped up in their own accomplishments and always looking out for number one. To work as a team, you’ve got to abandon the “me, myself and I syndrome” and see yourself as one part of a unit—each one fulfilling a specific role to reach a bigger goal.
A team player is someone who …
- Understands their unique role and those of their team members
- Capitalizes on each other’s strengths to accomplish objectives
- Does not view themselves as more important than others
- Attributes equal value and weight to each members’ contributions
- Is respectful toward others, despite differing opinions and personalities
- Is reliable when they make a commitment to get something done
- Does not sit idly by while others bear the brunt of the work
- Is ready to pitch in when another team member needs support
- Willingly shares their knowledge and expertise with others
- Views successes as a collective effort
Take the time to consider this list and identify any areas where you may need to grow. By becoming a great team player, you will open yourself up to many new opportunities and a promising career path!