Do you often struggle when working or partaking in activities with other people?
Feel you work better when alone as opposed to when with a team or group?
Do you try to avoid working with others because you’d rather do things on your own—and do them right?
Do you feel your way of doing things has started to make others wary of working or engaging with you?
If you answer yes to one or more of the questions above, chances are, you’re not a team player!
The Unwilling Team Player
Humans are social creatures and engagement with other humans is a part of everyday life. This is not just professionally but personally as well.
Professionally speaking, being a team player is one of the things that separates the best from the simply good.
Feel you’re done being the lone wolf and want to make some positive changes?
Loosen Up
You will have to engage and work with all kinds of people. We’re talking different ideas, ages, points of views, methods.
First things first; cut back on the rigidity. Judgment and preconceived notions will do you no good. Loosen up and let people in a little. Get to know what they are about as opposed to dwelling on what you think they’re about.
Gentle Suggestions
Don’t push your opinions on others even if you’re sure you’re right. Always suggest options gently. Be firm about presenting it, but not aggressively. The kinder you are to those around you when you put forth a suggestion, the more likely they are to listen.
Place Boundaries
Being a team player is not just about being agreeable and compliant. This is especially so if you’re in a managerial or supervisory position. You need to hold your ground. While you should be seen as approachable, you do not want to be seen as a pushover.
If there are things that go against your principles, appropriately and calmly state your grievance. Standing firm is important, especially for those of us who are generally nice and kind! Personal boundaries are important!
Use Your Space
If your team respects you and holds you in esteem, use that space well. If you have a team member or someone new working with you who is not being given room or space to say their bit, back them up. Stand up for the underdog and make sure everyone working with you is given fairground and space.
Humble and Open
Don’t get competitive with those working within your team. It’s not about who knows more; rather, about what you can achieve together. Share your knowledge and be helpful to others. At the same time, be humble and take on input and suggestions. Giving consideration to those around you will only make them respect you more.
There are many things you can do to develop your team playing skills. If you want to know more about how to navigate the personal and work environment better, bestselling author and professional business keynote speaker Bill Wooditch is someone you should hear.
Drawing on personal success stories and examples, Bill motivates thousands across the US to strive harder, do better and achieve their goals!
