Whether you have been on a sports team or part of a team in the professional world, everyone has been a team member at one point in their lives. When I started playing sports, I was just a child. I played competitive basketball and baseball through college and even afterward on many adult recreation league teams. Since entering the corporate world in 1984, I have always been on a team of some sort.
My point is that I have been on many teams over the years! I have played on championship teams, and I have played on teams that never lived up to expectations. I have had teammates that truly put the team first, and I have had teammates who put their accomplishments above everything else. I have had teammates that had all the talent in the world, but were not the best teammates, and have I had teammates that might not have been the most talented, but they were awesome teammates.
So, what made them such awesome teammates?
I have highlighted 5 traits below that take no talent but are all qualities that great teammates possess.
Being Prepared and Punctual
Effective team players come prepared for all meetings and discussions. They understand their role and prepare for it in order to contribute to key decisions. Team members who know that every suggestion counts will never attend a meeting unprepared.
While preparing for big meetings or conferences, great teammates are always on time. Being punctual shows respect for others’ valuable time and emphasizes that you are reliable, focused, and care about the team’s efforts.
Spread Positive Energy
It’s natural for a team to face challenges and difficult times, but the key is to stay positive. A great teammate will remain a positive influence despite unfavorable circumstances and work towards cheering up and encouraging their other teammates. These team members understand that staying positive in tough situations can be challenging but if you show a positive approach then it will be easier to combat difficulties.
Have a Strong Work Ethic
The process of becoming a great team player starts with having a strong work ethic. Before taking any action, a great teammate thinks about and is fair to everyone around them, and takes a moment to think about the organization’s core principles and goals. A great teammate knows their responsibilities and practices accountability. If you do not have a strong work ethic, then it does not matter how great you are at your work or how well you deliver it.
Be Teachable
We define teachability as being teachable; accepting feedback and instruction; taking personal responsibility, and seeking knowledge and competence.
Effective team members are committed to life-long learning and exhibit teachability whenever they can.
Prioritize the Team
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”
– Helen Keller.
While working with a team, great team members do not think about themselves all the time. In the long run, only the “We” mentality works effectively. A great team member moves with a collaborative approach is always supportive of others and shares experiences to help the team grow. A team cannot find success in an individual’s achievements, but an individual can easily find success in a team’s achievements.
As you think about your role and the team you serve, please take some time to reflect on the above. These qualities take absolutely no talent, just the right level of commitment and attitude to be a great teammate.
Want to work in an organization with countless great team members?
Where each member is prioritized and appreciated?
If yes, then join our team now!
