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The clearest example of teamwork that we can all relate to is, not surprisingly, sports. When a team - regardless of the type of team - pulls together, it usually wins. By implementing some of the same tactics used by coaches this same teamwork philosophy will promote camaraderie and a win-win situation for you and your employees.

A successful team has the following four characteristics:

1.) Objectives - the team must understand and accept common objectives.
2.) Roles - each team member must know how he/she fits into the overall picture.
3.) Guidelines - team members must understand the systems and methods to be used to accomplish goals.
4.) Relationships - team members must develop trust and respect for one another before they can come together for common cause.

The most weighted characteristic is relationships. As the supervisor, it is up to you to start building layers of positive relationships:

1.) Individual team members - Show that you care and will lend support if needed.
2.) Team as a whole - Provide direction, guidance, and inspiration.
3.) Relationships among members of the team - Promote positive, productive relationships.
4.) Relationships between your team & the rest of the company - Team goals should go hand-in-hand with company objectives.

Now that you've developed positive relationships with your employees you should have no problem getting high productivity from your team. Here are a few tactics to increase productivity through effective teamwork:
1.) Give the team a common cause.
2.) Cultivate interdependence among team members. Team members should know each other and understand each other's strengths so that they can turn to one another for help.
3.) Use challenges to strengthen bonds.
4.) Use a buddy system to begin working together.
5.) Have fun together.
6.) Make the work environment enjoyable.
7.) Develop a team slogan, symbol, etc.
8.) Recognize both team and individual accomplishments.
9.) Provide training.

Promoting teamwork can be very fulfilling for everyone involved. It strengthens employee bonds and enhances your leadership abilities. No one is left languishing on the bench - rather, everyone has the opportunity to develop, improve, and be creative!

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Tracey Lowrance
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