The Key To Being A Team Player

You have just been assigned a high profile project. This project requires that you be a team member instead of a project manager. Your first thought is to tolerate the other members and simply do your own thing however, before you proceed with that philosophy consider the concept of "Productive Team Co-existence." This concept focuses on being a good team player. Here are a few pointers to guide you along the way.

· Eliminate any bias concerning your team member's gender, age, or ethnic background.

· Do not prejudge the people on the team. Arrive at judgment based on work related behavior.

· Show empathy for the other people's problems, pressures, and needs.

· Do not personalize criticism.

· Cover for each other.

· Respect the values held by your team members.

· Have an open mind.

· Promptly handle misunderstandings or differences. Do not allow them to fester.

· Learn how to handle resistance.

· Provide genuine encouragement and motivation to your partners.

MCN Staff