Working in a team is always guaranteed to bring better and fast results. Working with other people on the other hand can be perplexing and that’s why, as an employee, learning the basics on how to excel in groups is very important.

First of all, working well with others necessitates that you understand your role before anything else. That way, you can be able to accomplish your duties to the best of your ability. 

Also, you will be in place to offer help to other team members.

Shona Kayitare, an employee at a human resource consulting firm says it’s important to respect the boundaries of your position and that of others.

As a team member, not crossing the line is one way of respecting your fellow co-workers, but also, enables healthy relationships that are free of conceit. 

When hiring, employers are so critical of candidates who can’t work well in a team environment. They hence look out for those who have the ability to collaborate well with others, among other traits such as good communication, commitment, and problem-solving skills.

Working well with others shows that you are committed to achieving both personal and organisational goals. Displaying consistent teamwork skills also indicates a strong work ethic, increasing your chances for raises, promotions, and other earnings. No matter your experience level or position, continuously focusing on becoming a better team player will succeed in your career, according to writer Phil Sennett.

He notes that some of the ways you can focus on improving your teamwork skills include offering help. If you see a co-worker who seems overwhelmed or is struggling to keep up with tasks, ask if you can help. Team players support each other during difficult times. Remember to ask for help, as well.

Celebrate teammates’ successes. If a member of your team succeeds in the workplace, so do you. It means you are one step closer to completing a goal. Celebrate their success. Also, stay updated on their personal lives and take time to express interest and care.

Kayitare believes that it is also important to be reliable. Having other members trust that you can deliver shows that you are a great team player.

"Some people tend to make promises they don’t keep. When someone says one thing and does another, it can be a frustrating experience for others. It obviously affects the group’s performance and can mean to slow things down,” she adds.

Team working is such a crucial way of accomplishing assignments. For this reason, it’s vital to develop the skills that will enable you become a great team player who adds value to any team you get assigned to.

editor@newtimesrwanda.com