It is vital to become a team player in a new job rather quickly. It is essential to your long-term success. Today, it is challenging to be a lone ranger in a corporate setting. So, most companies value a newcomer’s ability to integrate with a team and become a team player.
The question about collaboration and team play starts well in the interview stage. Hiring managers and recruiters will try to ascertain your ability to work with others. Perhaps one of the critical reasons for you to get the job is that you were convincing in your answers to work well with others and become a team player in short order.
So when you get a new job, it is imperative that you be proactive in showcasing your collaboration chops and team-first spirit.
Here are some Tips and Ideas on How to Become a Team Player in a New Job:
01
Deadlines are important.
Earn credibility by completing your work on time and following through with what you say you’re going to do. Showcase that you are a reliable teammate. If you think delays are inevitable in an activity or task, make sure to appraise your colleagues up front.
02
Be Responsible and Accountable.
Hold yourself responsible and accountable for your work. Be gracious and acknowledge your mistakes but show that you learn from experiences and are better for it.
03
Seek Advice.
In a new job, you don’t know everything. Let your bosses and colleagues know that you value their insights and expertise. Ask for suggestions and take those inputs when you’re working on a complex project.
04
Always be Learning.
In a new job, it helps to show some humility and embrace all learning opportunities. Picking up scraps of knowledge and essential skills makes you a better employee and bodes well for your future. Whether it is formal education, self-learning, or seeking mentoring, show that you are open to learning and growing.
05
Put Team First.
Put the organizational mission and goals of the team ahead of your ambitions. Focus on reaching your corporate vision and team objectives and supporting your team members to the best of your ability.
06
Be Positive and don’t retreat to your shell.
Setbacks are inevitable in a new job. Don’t sulk and blame others for these setbacks. Instead, be positive and while accepting responsibility come up with ideas on how to make things better. People love working with positive teammates.
07
Go Beyond Names and Titles.
If you are trying to establish a long-term career in a new job, it is crucial to get to know your colleagues. You may not socialize with everyone all the time, but even small gestures will go a long way in building alliances and growing a cadre of allies.
08
Set Clear Expectations.
When everyone ones what to expect from you, it will be easier to work collaboratively. It is about establishing the scope of work, who is accountable and responsible, and the milestones.
09
Be generous with your praise.
Timely praise and authentic appreciation go a long way in making your colleagues feel better about themselves and accept you as a valuable teammate.
10
Share criticism carefully.
Don’t criticize in public. Be direct but diplomatic. Disagree but not be disagreeable. It helps to focus on coming up with solutions and resolving issues.