The definition of teamwork is the cooperative or coordinated
effort on the part of persons acting together as a team or in the interests of
a common cause (teamwork, C.E.D.). The topic of teamwork in a business or
school setting often comes with a negative connotation. It does not need to be
that way. The purpose of a team is to combine the effort of multiple
individuals to accomplish a task with an outcome that could not be accomplished
by an individual. The potential of a team is very high and when a team works
together effectively.
There are multiple ways to improving teamwork
effectiveness. One, identify the common goal that everyone is trying to achieve
(Watson, 2011). A team needs to be cohesive so it is important that everyone
knows what they are working for. Two, encourage quality teamwork by rewarding
good performance (Capozzi, 2012). Rewarding those who are performing well will
boost the confidence of those receiving recognition and encourage others to
work harder. Three, give everyone a chance to participate (Williams, 2013).
Everyone has good ideas and is important that everyone gets the opportunity to
voice their opinions.
References
Capozzi, C.
(2012). Five ways to improve teamwork in the workplace. Chron, Retrieved from
http://smallbusiness.chron.com/five-ways-improve-teamwork-workplace-13766.html
teamwork.
(n.d.). Collins English Dictionary -
Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition. Retrieved March 06, 2013, from
Dictionary.com website: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/teamwork
Watson, S.
(2011). How to improve teamwork in the workplace. HowStuffWorks, Retrieved from
http://money.howstuffworks.com/business/starting-a-job/how-to-improve-teamwork-in-workplace.html
Williams, D.
(2013). Ten tips for improving teamwork. BellaOnline, Retrieved from
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art50113.asp
