The ability to collaborate with others is one of the most sought after skills today. Because of the complexity of the problems facing companies, many people with different perspectives and skills are needed to solve them. Teamwork is essential.

Companies structure their teams in different ways, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some are more hierarchical, while others are more evenly balanced in authority. Whatever their structure, there are traits that all productive teams share.

1. They have clear goals

This should come as no surprise. Goal setting is obviously an important step for any project. But, to enhance productivity and collaboration, team members also need to be held accountable for achieving the goals.

Team leaders need to explain the problems that need to be addressed and what results are expected. Beyond that, however, leaders need to give team members the freedom to tackle the problems on their own, taking whatever approach they believe to be best. The goal should be clear, the steps toward achieving that goal should be open ended. Allowing this kind of autonomy encourages people to work together.

It is important, however, that the role of each team member is clearly defined. If not, too much time is likely to be wasted as team members decide what they should be doing or protect their position.

2. They focus on results

Collaboration requires a secure environment, one where team members feel they can all make a contribution. Members should be able to make suggestions or comments without fear of criticism or condescension directed at them personally. They are focused on how to overcome obstacles.

Team members need to know they can take risks and fail as they work toward a solution.

3. Team members offer support

Team members need to support each other and focus on making progress as a team. In addition to setting clear goals, team leaders need to do their part by encouraging members in the exchange of ideas and helping to defuse any squabbling that may arise.

Team members need to encourage each other as well. They need to also make sure the workload is evenly divided so that no one is getting overwhelmed or feeling as if they are shouldering more of the work than others.

4. There is an atmosphere of trust.

Where there are strong bonds of trust among team members, they are two times more likely to meet their financial targets, three times more likely to perform better, six times more likely to be more creative, and eight times more likely to reach their goals, according to organizational experts.

When workers trust each other, they are more likely to work toward a common goal, to take risks, to think more creatively, and to communicate more openly. Without trust, people are more concerned about maintaining their position and authority. They are more likely to keep information to themselves, are less creative, and more likely to gossip.

If your company is looking for qualified, reliable people, Winston Resources can provide them. We thoroughly screen all of our job candidates to ensure they have the skills and experience you need, and that they will be a good fit for your company. Give us a call today.