Following on from our blog about the top ten soft skills employers want, we offer advice about how to develop teamwork skills.
Communicate clearly - express yourself using 'I' statements so that you are easily understood e.g. "I think we should . . . " or "I feel that . . . "
Listen to others - actively listen before passing comment, make eye contact and repeat important points back to show them you understand e.g. "So you think we should . . ."
Ask for feedback - sometimes this can be difficult but your team members can help you improve. Ask them what you could be doing better to help the team. It shows you care about their opinion and want the team to be successful.
Participate - give your opinion and be honest. Offering your thoughts will keep you an active member of the team and show you have an interest. Do not assume everyone has thought of the same problems, issues or ideas.
Clarify - if you do not understand something do not be afraid to ask. Many team members don't act because they are not sure what they are meant to do. Get clarification on your responsibilities if you are not certain.
Respect others - be polite, don't interrupt, try to see things from their perspective.
Take action - part of being a team player is helping to deal with problems and difficult situations. Take the initiative and solve the problem when it is small before it grows into a bigger problem that affects your team.
Compromise - you will not always get your own way be willing to compromise on issues. Consider why why things might need to be done differently and be willing to change your mind. Ask questions if you do not understand why someone needs you to do something differently.
Be reliable - do not over-promise, be honest about what you can and cannot deliver. Your teammates will be much happier knowing that they need to find another solution rather than find out you haven't done something.
Be flexible - be willing to adapt, sometimes you will need to revise your plan when the situation changes.
Take responsibility. Sometimes, you will fail or make a mistake. A good team player will always own up to their mistake and take action to fix it.
Pitch in - take a moment to do the small things that improve everyone's quality of life on your team.
