Working as part of a team

Being able to work in a team is important in today's work environment. There are many skills involved in effective teamwork. 

There are skills in getting the tasks done:  

• negotiating with others

• listening and sharing ideas

• sharing tasks and responsibilities

• problem solving

There are also skills in helping the team to be motivated and  to work well together: 

• resolving any 'differences'
• showing commitment
• cooperating with others
• encouraging each other
• recognising and using each other's strengths

Points about working effectively as part of a team   

• develop a positive working relationship and take the time to get to know each other
• thoroughly explore the topic or issue that you are examining; there is no need to rush

• use brainstorming to generate ideas

• record main ideas and plans

• share the tasks

• complete the tasks that you say that you will do

• encourage everyone to be involved

• arrange times when you will share your findings

• value what others have to say, even if it’s different from what you believe

• review how you are going regularly and adapt your approach if necessary so that your goals are achieved