In 2020 remote work became prevalent everywhere. With it came feelings of isolation and, for some, feelings of not belonging. We all desire recognition for a job well done, especially as members of a team. As a team, each person works together toward a common goal. When we worked together in person, it could already be a struggle to feel a part of the bigger picture and not just a wheel in the cog. Now that we are mostly remote, we see people not knowing how to connect with people on their teams in fulfilling and meaningful ways. Instead of working together, team members often feel each person is only interested in their own, separate interests.
When you're working within a team, putting personal interests aside and focusing on the collective is the best way to feel connected. The alternative can cause significant issues - tempers flare, feelings of isolation, judgmental behaviors, and much more trouble can ensue. Teams composed of members who can't put differences aside and support each other don't succeed. Put simply: you won't achieve the success you want if you aren't focused on the common goal.
United We Stand - Teamwork Tips
The key strategy to boost office morale and team productivity is to stand firm behind your common goal. By creating a unified front, you will be able to work together instead of pulling apart.
Here are some teamwork tips:
Appoint a team leader to oversee the progress and keep everyone motivated to finish the project. This leader can also make connections between team members based on skills.
Assign jobs according to the strengths of each team member. People naturally procrastinate when faced with a daunting task they're uncomfortable with, so divide the work accordingly.
Make teamwork something to strive for. Encourage remote workers to collaborate with each other.
Praise team members for a job well done. Acknowledge each person's hard work and dedication individually and as a team. Be sure to pass along any positive feedback from clients or upper-level management.
Set up a team reward upon successful completion of a project. Money doesn't have to be the only motivating factor to spur your team. Maybe it's time-off, a gift basket, or a trophy.
Get an Attitude of Gratitude in Your Office
How can tension within the office be turned around? Gratitude. Yes, it really is that simple! Each member needs to felt appreciated for his or her contributions and value added to the team.
Imagine a football team. If the quarterback isn't grateful for the offensive line which blocks for him, the wide receivers who catch his passes, and the running backs who he can hand off the ball to, he will not have confidence in his teammates. This lack of confidence will show up as miscommunications, blown plays, and lost games. The same things happen in the office!
In reality, a company setting is very much like being on a football team. You must show gratitude to the:
Administrative assistants who keep things organized and flowing
Sales associates who bring in new profits for the company
Human resources representatives who bring in new talent for you to work with
Marketers who make the company known
Managers who coach, inspire, and lead
Staff who tackle the finer details and makes things happen
Everyone plays an essential part of the team, so we all need to appreciate one another to get things done! After all, without each other, where would you be?
Gratitude Leads to Effective Teamwork
Once you're grateful for your team members' skills and talents, you'll begin to appreciate how each part of the puzzle is important for the team's overall success. You may even discover a renewed excitement about your job and all the projects your team can accomplish.
Let others in the office know how you appreciate their time, talents, and hard work. Send out emails or mention specific names in the company newsletter. Let your team know you care about them as people and not just as workers.
Encourage your workers to start up company clubs or activities that everyone can enjoy as a group. Doing so will help you get to know each other on a more casual basis.
Remember: it all starts with acknowledging how grateful you are for the talents of those around you. So take a moment today to say, "Thank You!"