Qualities of A Team Player
Qualities of A Team Player
Every organization relies on good teams. Effective teamwork in the workplace helps drive the
organization toward success. Here are a ten qualities that can make a team player outstanding in the
workplace:
Team players are genuinely committed to their cause. Good team players might make sure they are in
the office when needed, but great team players will make “seat” time worth it and contribute as much
as possible. They strive for excellence.
2. Be flexible
Instead of sitting on the bench watching the rest of the crew perform, an outstanding team player wants
to see the magic happen through his or her efforts as well. They are flexible to the situations thrown
their way, and they participate and tackle challenges without showing too many signs of stress or
pressure.
It is not in your interest to just sit quietly and get your work done. It’s a good thing to involved others, as
long as you aren’t bothering people with questions you should know the answer to. Great team players
come to their teammates having prepared their ideas clearly.
An excellent team player will be reliable and responsible. They complete the tasks in order of priority,
not necessarily in order that they’re given. When you’re not sure of what should take priority, ask your
manager.
5. Actively listen
Active listening is harder than you think. When you hear someone saying something you don’t initially
agree with, keep from interrupting and don’t let your mind prepare any counter remarks. Just listen, and
consider what they’re saying and more importantly, why they believe that.
Even if it is not in your job description, be generous with pointers or tips to help your team members.
For example, if a member of your team is having trouble with a technology tool that is easy for you,
offer to sit down with him and show him what you know.
It seems obvious that you wouldn’t want to shut someone from your team out, or laugh at other
people’s ideas, but we do these things in a subtle way, without realizing it, all the time. It is important to
become more self-aware of how you treat others. Remember, you’ll receive respect when you give it to
others. An ideal team player knows how to have fun, but he would never do it at someone else’s
expense.
9. Be a problem-solver
Your team leader may be working on solving problems, but there is no reason why you can’t offer
solutions yourself. Your teammates will appreciate your skills, and this may pays off later when your
manager considers you for a promotion!
A good team player will back off an idea when it becomes clear it’s not the right path. If you believe
strongly that your team is making a mistake, you can find a way to come back to the issue when the time
is right, but being a stubborn stick in the mud is not a quality of a good team player.