Best Spouses Work in Teams!

So what makes some teams succeed and others fail? Aside from the necessary ingredients of an effective leader and a clear goal, the most effective teams are comprised of individuals who are skilled in getting along with others. The teams whose members practice business etiquette accomplish more.

Theineffective teams often have members who cannot put aside personal agendas, are unwilling to listen to ideas and judge others too quickly. These members are the ones who, because they don't know how to get along, prevent the others from opening up and prevent the group from reaching a consensus. They complain, criticize, act superior, interrupt, are late for meetings and do not complete assigned tasks. They make the assignment difficult for everyone.

When appointed to a team, we have an obligation to be helpful in reaching the assigned goal. As a team member, your behavior can make or break the success of a project. Here are some tips to be an effective team player:

1. Be enthusiastic. Be willing to contribute ideas, offer solutions and set goals. Give time and thought to how you can add to the team. Identify ways in which you can be a better team member.

2. Let go. Trust your team members. Allow them to do their tasks without your input. Being part of a time means letting others shine too.

3. Listen to suggestions and ideas objectively. Don't let another's personality or personal attributes distract you from what he is saying. Take notes so you know what was said.

4. Stay on topic and don't interrupt. Stick to the agenda for a more productive meeting. Write your ideas down. When it is your turn to speak, you can raise the issue.

5. Pay attention to the speaker. Chatting and side conversations are distracting and imply you are disinterested.

6. Give the project your full attention. Turn the cell phone off and tell others outside the team you are unavailable.

7. Be positive. Don't negate an idea or suggestion. Recognize the value of someone's input.

8. Stay calm. A raised voice won't accomplish anything. State your case calmly without pointing fingers. If a problem arises regarding one of the team members, speak to the team leader or the individual privately.

9. Limit your floor time. Recognize your task is one of many that need attention and discussion.

10. Support the conclusion. When the team has accomplished its goal and the project is complete, don't make remarks suggesting it was not done to your satisfaction.

By Corby O'Connor at http://www.corbyoconnor.com/