There are lots of ways to define teamwork. We know it takes effort, cooperation, and coordination. It takes a group acting together and for a common goal. But what makes a team great? Better yet, how can you take your team at work and make them a better one, one that everyone wants to do business with? Here’s 5 easy ways to make your teamwork work:
1)   Create team goals.
When you can get individuals on the same page, working towards 1 shared goal, things that might have seemed unlikely or even impossible happen.  Individuals may have different roles on the team, but none is more important than another with a common goal is in sight.  In football, the quarterback usually gets all of the glory, but if the offensive line didn’t block and do their role, he wouldn’t be as effective.
2) Hire friendly people.
Hiring inherently happy people goes a long way.  A friendly staff is the face of your company and many customers buy from you because they “feel good” about the people they are working with.  Friendly people keep a positive attitude and make being at work more enjoyable for others.  And when you enjoy being at work, your customers can feel it.
3) Have a “YES” attitude.
If your coworker asks for your help, say “Yes”.  It shouldn’t matter what they’re asking for and it is more than the old, “if you scratch my back, I will scratch yours” approach.  Willingness to help, even if something isn’t your job, is contagious.
4) Keep open communication.
The ability to communicate quickly and efficiently is import to any team.  Have a meeting with your staff.  Talk about the best ways to communicate messages to each other.  There are plenty of tools out there, whether it is instant messenger, email, phone calls, using a company intranet, or a post it note on a desk. Establish which methods work best for you and use them.
5) Think outside the cube.
Get to know your coworkers outside of your cubicle walls and outside the stress of work.  Eat lunch with a different coworker each week. Plan a Happy Hour. Being able to get along outside of work helps develop a better understanding between coworkers and goes a long way when the chips are down.
What ways have worked for you to build better teamwork in your business?
photo credit: © Ivelin Radkov – stock.adobe.com

In his second Reman University article, Reman Wingman Jake Jankowski shares a few ways for better teamwork. What works for you? Share with Jake directly or in the comments below!