Effective Teamwork: 8 Simple Characteristics of a Great Team

Teamwork is essential in today’s business world. It is an important ingredient of successful organizations. Effective teamwork doesn’t just happen — it takes good problem-solving skills, decision making, communication and interpersonal skills.

Teamwork requires a unique set of soft skills that don’t come easily to everyone. Members have to voice their opinions, deal with a variety of personalities, and work through differences. Each team member must take personal responsibility for delivering results. So how do you know if your team is working together at a championship level?

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These eight characteristics are a good indication of effective teamwork:    

1. Dependence.

   People who are on a team know they are dependent on each other. They understand that personal and team goals are important. By realizing this, time and effort aren’t wasted squabbling and achieving personal gain at the expense of others.

2. Trust.

   When individuals work as part of a team, they work in an atmosphere of trust and are encouraged to express themselves openly. This type of environment encourages team members to ask questions, bring up concerns, disagree, and be more creative in solving problems.

3. Ownership.

   Team members feel ownership for their work and team because they have made a personal investment into the team. They focus on being successful for the team’s sake more than being part of a group. 

4. Individual strengths.

   Teams encourage individual members to apply their individual talent and knowledge to team objectives; thus, members contribute to the organization’s success

5. Open communication.

   All team members practice open communication with each other. They ensure they understand each other. This helps to foster a climate of trust among the team members.

6. Ongoing growth.

   Great teams encourage members to learn on the job and develop new skills. Teams support members that want to learn and become more efficient. They accept that there might be mistakes along the way but chalk with up to learning. 

7. Group decision-making.

   Decision-making involves the entire team - drawing on each member's unique knowledge and experience. However, they understand that the team leader will decide if they cannot find a solution.

8. Strong conflict resolution.

   Good teams resolve conflicts quickly and constructively. Team members are comfortable being open with each other and communicate freely.

Remember to celebrate your successes 

When your team accomplishes or exceeds its goals, be sure to recognize the win and celebrate it. At a minimum, schedule a final team meeting where you can thank the group collectively and describe the positive impact their work will have on your organization and your customers. One hallmark of an outstanding team is camaraderie. The team’s success will build on itself, and your team and your organization will be better for it as the team takes on more responsibility. 

Additional resource: Top 10 Teamwork Skills Every Company Needs for Success