Key Traits for Team Players

Joe Weinlick
Posted by in Career Advice


Most employees have probably heard the statement "there is no 'I' in team." The saying hints that the whole group is greater than the sum of its parts. Many of the best teams have the same basic characteristics that help get the job done. Each team player must perform certain functions, and each person exhibits key traits that lead to success.

Firms thrive when collaboration and innovation are encouraged company-wide. An August 2014 survey from ClearCompany reveals that 75 percent of employers described teamwork as "very important" to their bottom lines. Cross-division involvement brings people closer together and gives the company new perspectives in order to satisfy customers and clients. Similarly, key traits of each team player make the entire company run more smoothly.

Self-motivated people do not have to be told to do something once they know how things work. When a customer walks in the door, a self-motivated clerk walks up to the person and asks, "May I help you?" A team member with this trait holds himself accountable, and the rest of the group can count on him to get the job done.

Skillful and sharp teammates know what to do in any situation. These team players also stay several steps ahead of the process. When a new legal case comes in, a knowledgeable and self-motivated paralegal lines up paperwork that has to be written by the end of the week before a client even signs on the dotted line. Sharp people are on the move from the word "go."

The best team player is adaptable and flexible when the need arises. This means a co-worker can accommodate another team member's needs. If someone wants to work on a different part of the production line this week, the ideal employee finds another area in which to work. An accommodating person can perform several tasks and is well-rounded.

Team players become accessible to others at the office. When a manager has a request, favor or task, each team member should listen intently and respond accordingly. Likewise, managers should have an open-door policy when employees need to talk.

Every teammate shows some aspect of passion while he goes about his job. Without a passion for the work, the everyday grind of a job is not worthwhile. Not every day at work is like a trip to Hawaii, but passion keeps employees coming back the next morning even on two hours of sleep.

Executives who notice good team members may promote leaders for later career success. Managers, CEOs and business owners do not reach the top without relying on a group of individuals. Leaders need people to lead, and a good teammate supports the boss, avoids confrontations and makes helpful suggestions.

Many of the best companies find their "A" players to put on the field every day. A good team player gives something to the group, and then success brings each team member the rewards for completing the task properly.


Photo courtesy of renjith krishnan at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

 

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  • katherine M.
    katherine M.

    Very informative.

  • Sharon B.
    Sharon B.

    This is a very informative article.

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