Teamwork is critical at all levels of business and within all aspects of business. No one person can be responsible for any aspect of business. We need our fellow employees to contribute, take responsibility and ownership. One person may lead from the top, but we need leaders and teams throughout any organisation.

Here are a few tips:

Teamwork is establishing effective team working relationships when operating with own or other teams.

Co-operates:

* Responds positively to requests from others.

* Contributes to a friendly team environment.

* Shares information and issues with colleagues.

* Recognises the validity of other people’s viewpoint.

* Is open-minded when encountering different views and attitudes.

* Understands what needs to be done and ensures the team works co-operatively to deliver results.

Involves others:

* Encourages others to express their views and ideas.

* Takes time to listen to other people’s views.

* Builds on-going relationships with others, both internally & externally.

* Clarifies responsibilities and dependencies in the team to build effective working relationships.

* Builds team spirit and a positive working environment.

* Seeks out the views of others to ensure that a broad perspective is gained.

Builds a positive team culture:

* Takes swift action to resolve conflicts that get in the way of effectiveness.

* Implements ideas to improve the team dynamics and team spirit.

* Works to build a diverse team to reflect local populations.

* Understands the needs and goals of the other teams and businesses.

* Builds relationships with other teams across the business to share ideas, break down silos and maximise performance.

* Puts the ‘Company good’ before any individual ‘local gain’.

Builds partnerships:

* Actively creates partnerships with other teams and organisations to create added value for the business.

* Proactively seeks to exchange skills and ideas across business boundaries.

* Quickly assimilates new cultures and modifies his/her approach appropriately.

* Encourages others to be open-minded and appreciate alternative cultural perspectives.

* Encourages the development of and capitalises on the opportunities presented by a diverse workforce.

It only takes two people to make a team who understand how they can compliment each other. Removing self-interest and working for the greater good is paramount in teamwork. Make your dreams into reality through teamwork.