How to Slay Teamwork by Playing the Perfect Role

27.01.2016 by Anete Ezera

Today, we’ll steer away from our usual data visualization posts to talk about teamwork. We’ve been thinking a lot about what makes teams more efficient and the importance of team roles, so we did some research.

It’s no secret that excellent teamwork leads to greater success within an organization. When people collaborate and work towards common goals they tend to succeed at a faster rate than individuals working on their own, and they put out better work. A high functioning team improves efficiency, increases accountability, and boosts morale.

Teamwork in the office has been proven to:

  • Produce quality output – More brains are better than one! Working with your co-workers means you get constant feedback and a chance to learn new things.
  • Keep up the momentum – It’s nice to be held accountable by your peers. A team is more likely to stay the course when team members keep each other in check.
  • Create synergies – The whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Teams get more done working together than they can working apart.
  • Build trust – Every team member needs to pull their weight and trust their co-workers. It helps keep people motivated.
  • Be rewarding – The highs and rewards are even more exciting when working with a team. Everyone needs someone to high-five when goals are reached!

In order for a team to succeed, everyone needs to play a specific role at the right time. If you are going to be a good team member, you need to fully understand the roles others play, and the roles you are willing and able to play. This ultimately saves times and helps avoid potential conflicts.

Are you the creative type who generates ideas? Do you know how to avoid road blocks and solve problems? Maybe you are a specialist who excels at one thing in particular. There is also a chance you are great at maneuvering multiple roles. The infographic below shows the nine team roles established by Meredith Belbin. Which team role fits you best?

One of the benefits of teamwork is the ability to bring together different points of view to create a unique solution to a problem. That’s why its important for you to know your strengths, asses your responsibilities within the group, build an effective strategy, and work together with your team to achieve your company’s goals.

Use the handout below to learn the ‘do’s’ and ‘don’ts’ associated with each team role.

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