The Importance of Teamwork in the Workplace

There has been a lot of news about the many college graduates without jobs, or the fact that it takes more education to land a job these days.

Though education alone is sometimes not enough, recruiters are looking for a particular, intangible skill set to offer employers that goes beyond this.

The good news? It costs nothing and requires only patience and openness to learn. This skill that can make the difference between pounding the pavement and cashing a paycheck is teamwork.

Why Teamwork?

If you ask a recruiting firm what kind of employee that they are asked for, one of the most common answers you will get is a team player.

Team players see their job as a part of a working whole, and don't merely consider their own tasks, but those of their work associates.

A team player knows how to help their peers succeed, rather than try and use their failures as a stepping stone.

As a result, they become known as the person who makes everyone, including themselves, look good, instead of merely looking like the best of the mediocre.

Companies That Succeed

Another benefit, particularly in an industry that is all about personal service, is that when a company succeeds, it is clearly due to their employees.

This means one of two things. It is either highly rewarded by an appreciative employer, or an incomparable marketing tool for a job transfer.

Comfortable Work Places

Areas with high levels of teamwork are, in general, happier places to be. This means higher employee retention, productivity, and fewer stress-related sick and personal days.

Happy employees also create a much stronger customer interaction.

Who doesn't want to see someone who is happy to see and talk to you?

This translates into happier customers, and more referrals and retention.

How to Become a Team Player

If teamwork doesn't come naturally to you, it is something that can be learned.

Start with simple things, like offering to help co-workers with things that are easier for you than for them.

Offer to teach them your tricks, but don't be pushy if they use their own techniques, or hurt if they don't want your suggestions.

Teamwork is also about respecting different ways of doing things that are not your own.

Celebrate Successes

Teams celebrate when they do well-- not just as a whole, but individuals.

Most successful individuals are a part of a team, and though only one might be officially recognized, there is no question to anyone who knows the business the importance of a good team.

Whether a president or a movie producer, those who are best known for success are always quick to hold on to the best team players who not only succeed for themselves, but work hard to let others shine.

Learning Off the Job

There are a hundred places to learn teamwork, if it is something you don't know how to do well.

These can often be discussed during job interviews as examples of how you have learned to be a team player.

Those who enjoy athletics can join recreational sports teams.

Charity-minded individuals can work on Habitat for Humanity projects, plan charity events, or volunteer at a shelter.

Those who prefer smaller groups can offer to run errands for senior citizens or volunteer at a church function.

These things not only can translate into positive job skills, they create a spirit of team camaraderie and self worth that cannot be found without giving of yourself.

Rhino Search Group is a financial services recruiting firm known for its valuable client relationships with the most trusted financial brands.

Contact our financial advisor recruiters if you are looking to make a move, or buy/sell a book of business.

Visit the site:

www.rhinosearchgroup.com