Teamwork

There are many ways to accomplish different tasks, but any task can be accomplished through teamwork. It is a simple and practical principle that makes working independently seem primitive. In today’s society, for example, we are forced to collaborate with co-workers, or teammates, to accomplish a similar goal. Throughout our lives we are always going to be associated with a group, or involved in a situation where teamwork will achieve more than an effort alone can accomplish.

It is an obvious fact that, “Together, everyone accomplishes more” (Michael Lembach, 2005). When it comes to teamwork, most people will consider teamwork in terms of being part of a baseball, basketball, or football team. In contrast, a team is “really just a group of people who use their skills, experience, and knowledge to work toward a common goal” (Beverly K. Bachel, 2007). Although sacrificing individuality for the advancement of a team’s interest or goals is difficult for some, teamwork is “truly greater than the sum of its parts” (Paul F. Levy, 2005). Therefore, working with a group, and thinking as a team can have greater advantages.

One of the advantages of teamwork is seeing different solutions to a particular problem.

As a team, “you see different points of view and learn new ways of solving problems” (Beverly K. Bachel, 2007). In addition, true teamwork and learning to problem solve as a team, builds communication skills. Through the building of communication skills, a team is able to share ideas, and provide useful feedback. According to Bachel (2007), “Team members have a responsibility to express opinions, even when they differ from other’s views”.

The advantages of teamwork can also goes as far as improved physical performance. For example, “Based on study by Prapavessis and Carron (1997), who found a relationship between task cohesion and individual work output, it was predicted that there would be a positive relationship between task cohesion and perceived effort” (Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology, 2001). Teamwork’s effectiveness can also be significant in the world of business.

Many businesses rely on the committed efforts of its employees to maintain success. For example, “layers of management have been replaced by self-directed work teams, which are becoming the basic building block of many businesses” (Michael Lembach, 2005). This growing form of employee development is increasingly becoming an effective