A message from Sandy. We can all do a better job to support and encourage each other to make for a more cohesive team. Consider be more grateful for the amazing group you work with, and ask yourself, “What could I be doing differently?”

—-Accept the conflict is normal and will occur in groups. Believe it or not, disagreements and how you resolve them, can help shape the groups norm and identity. Conflict will be easier to deal with if each team member understands that disagreements will happen and play a normal and fundamental role in group formation. The key is how you manage yourself——–Do you make room for a suggestion or idea that wasn’t yours?——–Or does it take you a while to consider another person’s ideas?———–Perhaps you insist everyone agree with your opinion and get mad, upset, cry, or perhaps storm out when you don’t get your way?

—–Be willing to acknowledge good ideas. Be willing to admit when another team member has a better or more practical idea that your own. Praising each other has a positive effect on the group by improving the probability of the projects success. Keep in mind—when the group looks good–it makes you look good too.

—–Avoid backbiting and complaining about fellow team members. One of the quickest ways to hurt your reputation is to disturb the groups relationships by talking negatively about another team member,(especially someone new to the group who is still finding their way)  behind his/her back. Should a problem develop, do your best to resolve it directly with the person involved, addressing the issue  directly and tactfully. (remember the rules of venting)

—–Use your resources. When a group is put together, all of the members may not have the same expertise needed to perform the tasks sufficiently. Do not be afraid to ask questions, or seek advice from those that can provide information needed to increase your effectiveness and knowledge. For many of us our doctors have given us the gift of  coaching from Terry and Janis—-take advantage of this opportunity to learn and grow—they are a tremendous resource. At the same time, if you are the resource a team member comes to  for help, be cooperative, be encouraging, and share whatever information you have to assist them—–don’t be an information hoarder–this only reflects poorly on you showing you are not a team player.

—–Delegate according to your strengths. First you need to assess the strengths and weaknesses of each team member, delegate tasks to the employee with the strongest skill set in that area. Giving assignments based on each persons strong points will increase you chances of success and efficiency.

——Go the extra mile. It may mean staying a little late occasionally, working through lunch once in a while, or taking on some additional responsibility, your team relies on you doing your part, and doing it well. Sometimes that means taking on more than you initially expected. Going the extra mile is also a way to gain the respect of your fellow co-workers, we all want to know we can count on each other.

Go ahead–give it a shot! A more cohesive team dynamic can be in your future.