5 qualities of a good team member essay

Virtual Experiences
In-Person Experiences
Hybrid Experiences
Social Calendar [New]
Experience FAQ
Features & Benefits
How Pricing Works
Client Testimonials
Happiness Guarantee
Blog Articles
Video Library
View Experiences

16 Good Team Player Characteristics

By: Grace He | Updated: December 11, 2023

You found our list of top team player characteristics .

Team player characteristics are qualities that indicate a team member can contribute to the group in a meaningful way. These qualities demonstrate a willingness and capability to help the team achieve successful outcomes. Examples include cooperation, good listening skills, divergent thinking, and the ability to empathize and sympathize with others. Searching for these traits ensures that the team runs smoothly and that every member productively plays their part.

These traits are examples of team building skills and team management skills and are similar to signs of a good manager and strong leadership qualities . These employees create a more positive workplace .

The list includes:

signs of a team player
qualities of a good team member
examples of team player skills
characteristics of a strong team player
how to be a team player at work

Here is the list!

List of team player characteristics

From having an optimistic outlook to being proactive in handling difficult tasks, here are some characteristics of a team player.

1. Stays Open-minded

Being open-minded lets a team player be receptive to ideas and information from other team members and outsiders. When individual team members get too attached to their own ideas and opinions, it can be difficult for the team to function effectively. The ability to accept new ideas is valuable and allows team players to be open to opinions, even when they are subject experts. By keeping an open mind, an effective team player can help with decision-making and lead the group during times of change. Open-minded team players can work around obstacles created by limited thinking, making them a resource and beneficial player on the team when challenges arise.

2. Communicates Effectively

When team players can communicate effectively, other team members clearly understand their intentions and expectations. Team players with effective communication skills can also help explain processes in a way that newcomers to the team can pick up easily. Having documentation that clearly and accurately communicates required functions can make a new worker’s transition into the group a more positive experience.

While effective communication is useful for speaking in meetings and writing documentation, the ability to communicate clearly goes beyond just speaking and writing. Illustrating a complicated idea in simple terms is also an aspect of effective communication. This skill can help others understand complex concepts, turning a team player into a translator and a teacher for the rest of the team.

Here is a list of books on communication .

Get our free team building toolbox

icebreaker games
bingo cards

3. Cooperates

While some tasks require individual attention, being a proper team player means knowing how to cooperate with others. Cooperation may come in the form of contributing ideas to a project or taking immediate action when an all-hands-on-deck situation arises.

But being cooperative as a team player means more than just working well with others. Cooperation also means adopting the team’s philosophies and supporting the cause rather than making friction. If disagreements arise, then a cooperative team member defers to the ideas that best represent the project or group. The understanding that the best idea wins, even when it is not your idea, is a major part of being cooperative and a mantra a true team player eagerly accepts.

Check out this list of ways to boost workplace cooperation .

4. Helps Others

By being able to lend a hand when needed, a team player shows helpfulness that makes the team function more smoothly. Helpfulness may look like volunteering for tasks or projects or assisting others when their work falls behind. Whether the task is simple or complex, a team player is ready to jump in and help whenever necessary.

When outside forces need help only your team can provide, a helpful team player sees the request as an opportunity to represent the whole team. Being eager to step up when called on speaks well of the worker and reflects well on the group the worker represents.

5. Works Proactively

Successful team players anticipate the team’s needs and try to stay ahead of new tasks. This initiative also helps team players prepare for situations before they arise. By organizing resources for an upcoming project or tracking the timing of a new task, proactive team players help the team prepare for additional work.

While sometimes it may look like these workers are jumping the gun, true team players are really preparing the group for an easier transition. In addition to being better prepared to help, proactive team players also make space for potential problems and the extra time and attention to fix them. In the simplest terms, a proactive team player sets up the whole team for success.

6. Shows Optimism

Optimism is one of the most important characteristics of a strong team player. Having an optimistic outlook as a team player does not mean believing everything is always okay. This attitude means dealing with the reality of a situation without becoming hopeless. An optimistic team player can recognize a setback or challenge, process the information, and determine a solution.

By applying positive energy, optimistic team players keep moving forward without lingering in moments of disappointment. The possibility of alternate outcomes is always front of mind, which makes these individuals’ enthusiasm to push forward infectious to the rest of the team. The more optimistic team players you have in your group, the easier it is to maintain momentum and find workarounds when sticking points arise.

7. Encourages Others

One of the most important signs of a team player is their encouragement to their teammates. A true team player understands that the group’s success means success for individuals on the team. As a cheerleader for their coworkers, a team player can enhance the team’s energy and positively affect others. There tends to be a halo effect when team players encourage others to be their best, do their best, and give their best.

A team player who sets the example of encouragement models positive qualities for their coworkers. The resulting enthusiasm will likely turn the group into an encouragement engine, with teammates sending positive vibes back and forth and becoming more motivating individuals overall. When you have a team filled with encouraging team players, you have a team that thrives.

8. Knows How to Lead

Team players understand that leadership can sometimes come from within the group. There may be moments when a supervisor is unavailable when needed to make crucial decisions or lead a work effort. A team player with leadership ability steps up to take risks and help guide the group to the best of their abilities. These folks recognize that decisive action will help the team move forward and might even assist outside teams get the answers they need.

As effective communicators, team players who step into momentary leadership roles know to report back to their supervisors to keep them in the loop. This leap in responsibility comes with the risk that the decision may not be the preferred choice. Taking responsibility for their actions is a critical part of leadership in a team player and learning from their mistakes.

Here is a list of leadership skills .

9. Knows When to Follow

Team players need to know when to follow their leader’s example, such as upholding the team’s core mission or taking on a project as a subordinate to another worker. When another team member steps up to assume a leadership role, a team player who knows how to follow will offer their knowledge and talents to assist the new leader to become successful.

Team players with a solid sense of followership understand that letting others lead does not minimize their own leadership skills. It simply means that another teammate has stepped up and needs assistance from the whole group. In these moments, providing the help necessary provides the opportunity for a team player to become an effective follower.

10. Thinks Critically

Considering a situation from multiple angles makes a team player an asset to the group. Teams are bound to encounter work scenarios where a single answer is the only answer. Sometimes, it becomes necessary to examine possible solutions and reason through them until the ideal solution becomes clear.

Beyond anticipating how the possible outcomes will play out, this type of problem-solving requires the ability to absorb the ideas of others on the team. A team of critical thinkers allows cooperation and collaboration, with ideas shared freely. Critical thinking is just as effective when a team player works on an individual task, allowing them to make valuable contributions in different settings.

11. Knows How to Delegate

When a team player gets the chance to become the leader of a smaller sub-team, knowing how to delegate responsibilities becomes an important characteristic. The sub-team may consist of only a few workers, but a lead team player who can define roles for each team member based on those members’ strengths will ensure an efficient effort from the whole group.

Delegation may come in the form of appointing duties or may appear as assigning specific tasks to individual workers. A team player with delegation skills can tell what the situation calls for and act in the project’s and team’s best interest. This sort of balancing act can be difficult, but a true team player can handle it skillfully and successfully.

12. Listens Well

Key among the examples of team player skills is their ability to listen. It may seem like an obvious ability, but effective listening involves more than just hearing. Team players with good listening skills know that asking questions to get further clarification is a vital element in the listening process.

Part of being an effective listener is active listening. Team players demonstrate effective listening by ensuring they understand what they have heard. Team members often assume they understand what they hear but end up confused and frustrated. A team player who listens effectively recognizes that some concepts are unclear on first listen and require further explanation. These team members are unafraid to raise their hands and ask questions, which can sometimes help inform the entire team.

13. Keeps Curious

A team player with a healthy curiosity adds value to the whole organization. Whether learning to perform tasks outside of their role or looking for opportunities to improve processes for the group, a curious team player is unafraid of taking in new information.

When the team takes on new functions, curious team players will usually lead the charge with excitement. These employees often become subject matter experts and can help with onboarding tasks or create training materials to educate incoming team members. A diverse knowledge base makes a curious team member an asset and a resource from whom other team members can learn.

14. Shows Generosity

The most effective team players are generous with their time and attention. These team members understand the importance of sharing information and are more than willing to give their knowledge. Generosity may appear as a moment of recognition, during which a generous team player ensures the right coworkers receive credit for their efforts. A simple willingness to break away from their own tasks to help a frustrated workmate through a difficult moment is also a display of team player generosity.

Because teamwork is, by definition, an exchange, generous team players recognize that by being giving with their resources, they set the tone for their teammates to reciprocate. As a positive influence on the group, a generous team player is one of the most important figures a team can have.

15. Shows Self-Awareness

A team member who shows self-awareness is as honest about their weaknesses as they are about their strengths. These workers understand that admitting flaws is a necessary part of self-improvement. Recognizing their shortcomings makes team players more likely to accept suggestions for development.

Self-aware team players also know that they are one piece of a greater machine that only works when all the pieces function properly. A team player’s self-awareness may mean that they step forward when their strongest skills can help the situation, not out of arrogance but out of recognition. This type of comfort in their own skin comes across as quiet confidence in a truly self-aware team player.

16. Welcomes Feedback

Because feedback is a necessary part of a team experience, being able to welcome feedback is among the most crucial characteristics of a strong team player. Whether the message is a compliment or a critique, a true team player learns from what others have to say. Every improvement helps the team perform better, in addition to making the individual a stronger team member. A team player recognizes that downfalls in their own performance can compromise the group and is eager to address pain points and move forward.

When team players welcome feedback, they take a professional approach to their responses. They may ask for more information to ensure they understand what they must work on. They may also request follow-up feedback or guidance in making improvements to avoid missteps. This ability to view criticism as an opportunity for development is a team player’s secret weapon for success.

Check out this guide to constructive feedback .

A combination of helpful team player characteristics can turn an average worker into a teamwork superstar. Many of these traits develop over time, helping workers who may need a bit of guidance become better team players. With workshops demonstrating techniques for enhancing the qualities that benefit the group, you can introduce your crew to methods for strengthening their team player characteristics. You may end up with your very own power team!

Next, check out these examples of animals that work together in nature and quotes about teamwork .

Book wildly fun team building events with expert hosts

FAQ: Team player characteristics

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about team player characteristics.

What are team player characteristics?

Team player characteristics are traits that help a team member become an effective contributor to their team. When individual team members exhibit helpful team player characteristics, they model good behaviors for their teammates and help the group function well.

What makes a good team player?

A good team player is willing to help others and shows curiosity for new information. Listening and communicating effectively are valuable characteristics for team players, as are having an optimistic outlook and knowing how to encourage their teammates.

How do you identify team players in the workplace?

You can identify team players in the workplace by looking for skillful, open-minded communicators who are unafraid to assist their teammates. Worke s who show initiative when it comes time to take on new tasks are some of the most visible team players in the group.

Why is it important to be a team player at work?

It is important to be a team player at work because the success of the team depends on the ability for the members to work efficiently and effectively together. Assisting not only other workers within the group but also teams and individuals from outside the group can help the entire organization thrive.

Author: Grace He

People & Culture Director at teambuilding.com. Grace is the Director of People & Culture at TeamBuilding. She studied Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University, Information Science at East China Normal University and earned an MBA at Washington State University.

We lead wildly fun experiences for teams with 1,000,000+ players to date.

4.96 / 5.0 rating on

50,225 Google Reviews

Get our free team building tool box

$49 value at no cost..

May as well check it out?
100+ tested icebreaker questions
24+ themed Bingo generators
5+ PDFs (including the 8% Rule)
2024 team building calendar and more...

Enter your email for instant access

Home — Essay Samples — Life — Teamwork — Essential Qualities of Good Team Members

Essential Qualities of Good Team Members

Categories: Communication Skills Teamwork

About this sample

Words: 666 |

Published: Aug 31, 2023

Words: 666 | Page: 1 | 4 min read

Strong communication skills, collaborative mindset and adaptability, reliability and accountability, conflict resolution and interpersonal skills, contributing ideas and taking initiative, open-mindedness and respect for diversity, positive attitude and motivation, time management and organizational skills, conclusion: nurturing qualities that propel team success.

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Dr. Heisenberg

Verified writer

Expert in: Life

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

2 pages / 814 words

3 pages / 1154 words

2 pages / 1053 words

4 pages / 1642 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Teamwork

Being part of a team is a transformative experience that extends beyond mere collaboration. Whether in sports, academics, or professional settings, the dynamics of a team environment offer individuals a unique opportunity to [...]

Group work is a ubiquitous aspect of both educational and professional environments. It involves collaboration among individuals to achieve a common goal or complete a task. In this essay, we will explore the dynamics of group [...]

In today's increasingly interconnected and globalized world, teamwork has emerged as a crucial skill for success in various domains, including academia. As a college student, I have had numerous opportunities to engage in [...]

Doctors and nurses are two essential components of the healthcare system, working together to provide high-quality care to patients. While their roles may differ in terms of responsibilities and level of education, they share [...]

Canada is an internationally known country with the long reputation for high quality of life with the growing number of citizens competing for limited resources, hence; making homelessness a reality. The main populations making [...]

The impact of management styles is immense, affecting both small businesses and large corporations worldwide. These management styles have a far-reaching influence, impacting everyone from top executives to new [...]

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

Instructions Followed To The Letter
Deadlines Met At Every Stage
Unique And Plagiarism Free

The Psychology of Teamwork: 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teams

These are the outcomes of working as a team, whether in business or on the sports field. Yet teamwork comes with its own set of challenges.

Would you like to know how to leverage the many benefits of teamwork?

Yet avoid its pitfalls, such as lack of communication, poor trust, and personality clashes among team members?

Then this article is for you, as we explore the psychology of teamwork and share actionable habits that can build highly effective teams.

Before you continue, we thought you might like to download our three Work & Career Coaching Exercises for free . These detailed, science-based exercises will help you or your clients identify opportunities for professional growth and create a more meaningful career.

This Article Contains:

The psychology of teamwork: what makes an effective team, 7 habits of highly effective teams, 2 real-life examples of effective teamwork, 10 barriers to teamwork, 10 team-building skills for successful teams, resources from positivepsychology.com, a take-home message.

Psychological theory, research, and models provide valuable insights and guidance into effective team building and maintenance in various workplace settings, including schools, hospitals, corporate offices, oil rigs, power plants, and the military (Salas et al., 2018).

Psychology has come a long way in understanding such complex groups—as recognized by a special issue on the “ Science of Teamwork ” in the American Psychological Association’s flagship journal American Psychologist in 2018.

Teams are vital and commonplace. Because of their prevalence and impact, “our safety, security, comfort, and innovation depend on good teamwork and collaboration” (Salas et al., 2018, p. 593).

Innovation is often the result of constant communication and side-by-side work and takes place “when collaboration translates each person’s creativity into group genius” and conflict is avoided (Sawyer, 2007, p. 13).

But then, what are teams exactly, and how do we define them?

Teamwork definition

We must begin by understanding what defines a “group.” Within an organization, a group is more than simply a collection of people. Members recognize themselves as a social entity that (Davenport, 2009):

Interacts with each of its members
Is psychologically aware of each of its members
Perceives itself as a group

And yet, teams go further. They share a common goal. With the modern workplace demanding successful partnering across functional and geographical divides, fostering collaborative team working cultures becomes increasingly vital (Davenport, 2009).

Therefore, an effective team has the following attributes (Davenport, 2009):

Clear understanding of the team’s objectives and goals
Range of skills and know-how among team members to handle tasks effectively
Variety of personality types and strengths among its team members
High degree of respect and trust, both individually and for each other’s contributions to team performance
An effective recognition and reward system

The points above are helpful because they enable us to distinguish between people working together in groups and those forming effective teams.

When considered together, it’s possible to arrive at the following teamwork definition: “Teamwork can be defined as the ability of team members to work together, communicate effectively, anticipate and meet each other’s demands, and inspire confidence, resulting in a coordinated collective action” (Salas & Cannon-Bowers, 2001, extract).

And a definition of team building might arise as follows:

“Team building is an ongoing process that helps a work group evolve into a cohesive unit. The team members not only share expectations for accomplishing group tasks, but trust and support one another and respect one another’s individual differences” (Team building: Introduction, n.d., para. 1).

Understanding the psychology of group dynamics

“We know what effective teams do, think, and feel. We know what influences team dynamics, and some interventions that help develop teamwork” (Salas et al., 2018, p. 593).

Psychological research has confirmed that the following elements are the minimum prerequisites for an effective team:

Strong team leadership
Role clarity
Mutual trust
Sound information exchange protocols
A compelling reason to be a team

Team psychology in the workplace

Several psychological and organizational models and frameworks have grown out of the need to understand and explain how teams form, grow, develop, maintain, and change in the workplace.

The following three early models are valuable for our current understanding of how effective teams evolve (Davenport, 2009).

Bass and Ryterband’s model

Bass and Ryterband’s (1979) model of team development includes four stages and areas of focus:

First stage: Building trust among team members
Second stage: Open communication, problem-solving, and decision-making
Third stage: Motivation and productivity of the team
Fourth stage: Control and organization where members can work independently

Woodcock’s model

Woodcock’s (1979) model of team development also has four stages:

The undeveloped team: Unclear objectives, established policies, and a lack of shared understanding prevail. Mistakes are used to blame others.
The experimenting team: The team is willing to take risks and includes more active listening and short periods of group introspection.
The consolidating team: The team adopts a systematic approach. Rules and procedures are agreed upon, and improved relationships and methods from the previous stage are maintained.
The mature team: The team achieves high flexibility and appropriate leadership for different situations, and prioritizes development for continued success. Trust, openness, honesty, cooperation, confrontation, and reviewing results become the norm.

Tuckman’s model

Tuckman’s (1965) model of team development includes five stages:

Forming During the initial stage, team members come together. They may be anxious and unsure, and there are few rules.
Storming This is the stage of disagreement, including frustration and potential confrontation, where team members are more confident to express themselves and challenge each other.
Norming This is when group identity, guidelines, and norms are established. Emotions are expressed constructively.
Performing The team has created structure and cohesiveness to work effectively and can now concentrate on achieving its objectives.
Adjourning In this final stage, the team reflects on their time together and may disband.

Sports psychology

As with individuals, team performance in sports can benefit from time spent building psychological capital , which comprises four key elements (Luthans et al., 2015):

Self-efficacy

Furthermore, according to positive psychology consultant and performance coach John Yeager, sports teams collectively benefit from coaching focused on each element to build the psychological capital required to boost their combined performance.

Once achieved, they “maintain a healthy culture and find an effective balance between holding athletes accountable and supporting each other” (Yeager, 2021, p. 223).

Recommended read: Positive Psychology in the Workplace

Keith Sawyer (2007, p. 13), a psychologist at Washington University, says that his research shows “the secret to understanding what makes a collaboration successful lies inside the box, in moment-to-moment interactional dynamics.”

This understanding led him to rethink group innovation and creativity, identifying the following seven key characteristics (or habits) of effective, creative teams along with suggested actions for moving innovation forward (Sawyer, 2007):

Innovation emerges over time. Successful innovation requires its members to combine the right ideas in an appropriate structure, bit by bit.

ACTION: Encourage team members to take time each day/week to brainstorm and share new ideas and establish a structure for combining and building on those ideas over time .

Successful collaborative teams practice deep listening. Team members often spend too much time planning what they will say and how to respond in meetings and too little time listening to and observing others.

ACTION: Prioritize active listening and observation during team meetings and discussions. And provide opportunities for team members to practice deep listening skills .

Team members build on their collaborators’ ideas. Through deep listening, team members take on and evolve each idea further.

ACTION: Recognize the potential of other team members’ ideas and accept the importance of collective ownership to drive forward problem-solving .

Only afterward does the meaning of each idea become clear. While it’s tempting to attribute an idea to one person, its full importance results from being taken up, reinterpreted, and applied by the whole team. “Participants are willing to allow other people to give their action meaning by building on it later” (Sawyer, 2007, p. 15).

ACTION: Emphasize the importance of evolving and adapting ideas as a team, rather than attributing them to one individual .

Surprising questions emerge. “The most transformative creativity results when a group either thinks of a new way to frame a problem or finds a new problem that no one has noticed before” (Sawyer, 2007, p. 16).

ACTION: Encourage team members to question assumptions and think outside the box by regularly posing surprising or unconventional questions during meetings and discussions .

Innovation is inefficient. Improvised innovation will make more mistakes, but it can be phenomenal when the team gets a hit.

ACTION: Recognize that innovation can be inefficient and messy but emphasize the potential for breakthroughs .

Innovation emerges from the bottom up. Teams start with the detail, improvise innovation, then work up to the big picture.

ACTION: Foster a bottom-up approach to innovation, starting with small details and building toward the bigger picture .

While all seven are characteristics of an effective team, they are also actionable tasks within the process where team members play off each other (Sawyer, 2007).

17 More Work & Career Coaching Exercises

These 17 Work & Career Coaching Exercises [PDF] contain everything you need to help others find more meaning and satisfaction in their work.

Created by Experts. 100% Science-based.

The following are two high-profile examples of the immense potential of effective teamwork, especially when the stakes are high (Keup, 2022; Allen, 2022).

One giant leap for humankind

The Apollo 11 mission in 1969 is a prime example of teamwork at its finest.

While the world celebrated the achievement of Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins, the success of the mission resulted from the efforts of a much larger team.

The mission planners, scientists, engineers, and technicians, numbering around 400,000, worked tirelessly for years to make the moon landing a reality. The team’s cohesion was strengthened by the astronauts’ close collaboration with these groups, emphasizing the importance of human connection in any team.

Wikipedia is the epitome of teamwork in the digital age. It’s a collaborative engine of knowledge that is constantly evolving, thanks to the efforts of an army of volunteer writers and editors.

Unlike traditional encyclopedias, Wikipedia is constantly updated and open to debate and challenge, making it a dynamic and accurate source of information.

While the scale of this teamwork is almost incomprehensible, the site runs smoothly, with errors quickly discovered and corrected. Everyone who has landed on the site is considered a part of the team, making Wikipedia a perfect example of how teamwork can achieve great things in the digital age.

5 Traits of high performing teams

Understanding what stops or limits individual and group performance can help us build and maintain motivated, resilient, and highly effective teams.

The following 10 barriers can present themselves in real-world team environments (Haas & Mortensen, 2016):

Poor understanding of roles and responsibilities Team members may not fully understand their roles and responsibilities, leading to confusion and lack of accountability.
Insufficiently defined goals and objectives Team members may not clearly identify what they are working toward, leading to uncertainty and lack of motivation.
Poor decision-making processes Teams may lack effective decision-making techniques and strategies, leading to delays and suboptimal outcomes.
Resistance to change Team members may resist change, leading to a lack of flexibility and stagnation.
Lack of accountability and ownership Team members may not feel accountable for their work and the team’s success.
Lack of resources or support Teams may not have the necessary resources and support from leadership to achieve their goals effectively.
Inadequate leadership Teams may not have effective leadership, leading to a lack of direction and guidance.
Groupthink Team members may be reluctant to challenge the opinions and ideas of others, leading to poor decision-making and an absence of creative thinking.
Lack of trust and psychological safety among team members Team members may be hesitant to share their ideas and concerns due to a lack of trust in their colleagues or fear of being judged and rejected.
Inadequate communication Team members may not be effectively communicating with each other, leading to misunderstandings and conflicting priorities.

Clear communication Encourage team members to speak openly and honestly and actively listen to one another’s ideas and perspectives. Provide training and resources to help team members improve their communication skills.
Trust and accountability Create an environment where team members feel safe to take risks and be vulnerable with one another. Hold team members accountable for their actions and decisions and provide them with the support and resources they need to succeed.
Adaptability and flexibility Encourage team members to be open to new ideas and ways of working. Be willing to pivot and change course when necessary.
Emotional intelligence Provide training and resources to help team members better understand and manage their own emotions and those of others.
Active listening Encourage team members to fully engage, pay attention to what others are saying, and respond thoughtfully.
Conflict resolution Teach team members how to navigate and resolve conflicts constructively and effectively.
Goal alignment Ensure that individual goals align with the team’s overall objectives and that everyone works toward a common purpose.
Delegation Teach team members how to assign tasks and responsibilities to one another effectively to maximize their strengths and capabilities.
Problem-solving Teach team members how to identify problems and develop practical solutions.
Empowerment and autonomy Give team members the freedom and support they need to take ownership of their work and make decisions. Provide regular feedback and coaching to help them improve their skills and advance in their careers.

We have many practical resources for you as a manager or leader supporting your team as they form, develop, and attempt to avoid some challenges of group dynamics.

Our free resources include the following:

GROW model Use the power of the GROW model to define team goals and boost motivation and cohesion.
Do the Hula In this novel and fun exercise , the group learns the value of team cooperation.
Stepping Forward Use this activity to begin and end team building by clarifying expectations for the day.

Our Emotional Intelligence Masterclass© helps boost teamwork by teaching staff to handle emotions better. The training improves communication, relationships, decision-making, job satisfaction, motivation, and overall wellbeing. It also enhances the emotional intelligence of the coach, making them better equipped to lead teams.

The Positive Relationships Masterclass© strengthens teamwork using the “Six Pillars of Positive Relationships.” It offers practical techniques to enhance communication and maintain healthy relationships, leading to improved coaching skills and a thriving workplace.

You will learn the key aspects of positive relationships and explore science-based ways to categorize the different types of positive network members and grow social capital.

Not only that, but we also have specific articles that delve into team-building topics; for example:

15 Communication Exercises and Games for the Workplace
Active Listening: The Art of Empathetic Conversation
The Importance, Benefits, and Value of Goal Setting

And lastly, if you’re looking for more science-based ways to help your team develop their strengths, check out this collection of 17 strength-finding tools . Use them to help others better understand and harness their strengths in life-enhancing ways.

Research in the psychology of teamwork has shown that effective collaboration can lead to improved productivity, creativity, and job satisfaction among team members (Sawyer, 2007; Salas et al., 2018).

When teams experience a sense of belonging and purpose in their work, they are more likely to achieve their goals and be motivated to perform at their best. It can also lead to improved organizational outcomes, such as achieving goals, making better decisions, and providing higher levels of customer service.

Great teamwork relies on successful team building—the process of creating a cohesive, high-performing team capable of working together successfully. Effective team building can reduce conflicts, turnover, and absenteeism among its members by fostering a positive culture and improving overall morale.

As a manager, you can encourage the best out of your teams by creating a supportive and inclusive environment, encouraging clear communication, and promoting trust, accountability, and active listening.

Additionally, you can provide training and resources to help team members develop the skills they need to work well together, such as problem-solving, conflict resolution , and emotional intelligence. In our resources section, we provide a recommended selection of free and paid resources—all well worth it to build your own highly effective team.

We hope you enjoyed reading this article. Don’t forget to download our three Work & Career Coaching Exercises for free .

Allen, V. (2022). Teams that changed the world . WorkStyle. Retrieved January 20, 2023, from https://www.workstyle.io/top-performing-team-case-studies.
Bass, B. M., & Ryterband, E. C. (1979). Organizational psychology (2nd ed.). Allyn & Bacon.
Boogaard, K. (2022). 7 essential teamwork skills . Work Life by Atlassian. Retrieved January 23, 2023, from https://www.atlassian.com/blog/teamwork/teamwork-skills-accelerate-career/amp
Davenport, H. (2009). Groups and teams. In I. Brooks (Ed.), Organisational behaviour: Individuals, groups and organisation (pp. 111–155). Essay, Pearson.
Haas, M., & Mortensen, M. (2016). The secrets of great teamwork . Harvard Business Review. Retrieved January 20, 2023, from https://hbr.org/2016/06/the-secrets-of-great-teamwork.
Keup, M. (2022). 9 inspirational teamwork examples . ProjectManager. Retrieved January 20, 2023, from https://www.projectmanager.com/blog/teamwork-examples.
Luthans, F., Youssef, C. M., & Avolio, B. J. (2015). Psychological capital and beyond . Oxford University Press.
Sawyer, K. (2007). Group genius . Basic Books.
Salas, E., & Cannon-Bowers, J. A. (2001). Teamwork and team training. In N. J. Smelser & P. B. Baltes (Eds.), International encyclopedia of the social & behavioral sciences (pp. 15487–15492). Elsevier.
Salas, E., Reyes, D. L., & McDaniel, S. H. (2018). The science of teamwork: Progress, reflections, and the road ahead. American Psychologist , 73 (4), 593–600.
Steps to building an effective team. (n.d.). Retrieved January 23, 2023, from https://hr.berkeley.edu/hr-network/central-guide-managing-hr/managing-hr/interaction/team-building/steps.
Team building: Introduction. (n.d.). Retrieved January 24, 2023, from https://hr.berkeley.edu/hr-network/central-guide-managing-hr/managing-hr/interaction/team-building/introduction.
Tuckman, B. W. (1965.) Development sequence in small groups. Psychological Bulletin , 63, 384–399.
Woodcock, M. (1979). Team development manual . Gower.
Yeager, J. (2021). The coaching zone: Next level leadership in sports . Yeager Leadership Press.

Share this article:

Article feedback

What our readers think.

interesting and well organized food for thought

Some practical examples of effective teams- Love the 7 habits links

Nice article, thank you! Well, I think a strong team consists of strong individuals that are aware of their impact on the company.

Very helpful with the work I do dealing with grief counseling.

Going to use with my sporting team as a new coach

Let us know your thoughts Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Company Culture: How to Create a Flourishing Workplace

Company culture has become a buzzword, particularly in the post-COVID era, with more organizations recognizing the critical importance of a healthy workplace. During the Great [...]

Integrity in the Workplace (What It Is & Why It’s Important)

Integrity in the workplace matters. In fact, integrity is often viewed as one of the most important and highly sought-after characteristics of both employees and [...]

Neurodiversity in the Workplace: A Strengths-Based Approach

Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace is a priority for ethical employers who want to optimize productivity and leverage the full potential [...]

Download 3 Free Work & Career Tools Pack (PDF)

By filling out your name and email address below.

Email Address *
Your Expertise * Your expertise Therapy Coaching Education Counseling Business Healthcare Other
Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Download 3 Work & Career Exercises Pack (PDF)

How it works

Transform your enterprise with the scalable mindsets, skills, & behavior change that drive performance.

Explore how BetterUp connects to your core business systems.

We pair AI with the latest in human-centered coaching to drive powerful, lasting learning and behavior change.

Build leaders that accelerate team performance and engagement.

Unlock performance potential at scale with AI-powered curated growth journeys.

Build resilience, well-being and agility to drive performance across your entire enterprise.

Transform your business, starting with your sales leaders.

Unlock business impact from the top with executive coaching.

Foster a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Accelerate the performance and potential of your agencies and employees.

See how innovative organizations use BetterUp to build a thriving workforce.

Discover how BetterUp measurably impacts key business outcomes for organizations like yours.

A demo is the first step to transforming your business. Meet with us to develop a plan for attaining your goals.

What is coaching?

Learn how 1:1 coaching works, who its for, and if it's right for you.

Accelerate your personal and professional growth with the expert guidance of a BetterUp Coach.

Types of Coaching

Navigate career transitions, accelerate your professional growth, and achieve your career goals with expert coaching.

Enhance your communication skills for better personal and professional relationships, with tailored coaching that focuses on your needs.

Find balance, resilience, and well-being in all areas of your life with holistic coaching designed to empower you.

Discover your perfect match : Take our 5-minute assessment and let us pair you with one of our top Coaches tailored just for you.

Research, expert insights, and resources to develop courageous leaders within your organization.

Best practices, research, and tools to fuel individual and business growth.

View on-demand BetterUp events and learn about upcoming live discussions.

The latest insights and ideas for building a high-performing workplace.

BetterUp Briefing

The online magazine that helps you understand tomorrow's workforce trends, today.

Innovative research featured in peer-reviewed journals, press, and more.

Founded in 2022 to deepen the understanding of the intersection of well-being, purpose, and performance

We're on a mission to help everyone live with clarity, purpose, and passion.

Join us and create impactful change.

Read the buzz about BetterUp.

Meet the leadership that's passionate about empowering your workforce.

For Business

For Individuals

How to be a good team player: Tips for becoming the dreamy coworker

Jump to section

The characteristics of a good team member

Why should you learn to be a good team player, 10 tips to be a good team player, perfect balance: leadership versus collaboration, how to recognize bad team players, how to deal with a bad teammate, do you consider yourself a good team player.

Learning how to be a good team player can help you achieve your work goals and get along better with your coworkers. So why do we often find it hard to work with others?

When trying to complete an important project, it’s easy to feel like you can only trust yourself to get the job done. You might work long hours , leave your coworkers off of important email threads, or make decisions without input from others. Though seems like the more efficient way to get things done , in the long run, it can harm you and your career .

Even if your coworkers are difficult to be around, you have to learn how to be a good team player . Everyone, from entry-level workers to entrepreneurs , has to work with other people to achieve their goals. You even need teamwork skills in your personal life — have you ever tried to decide where to eat dinner with your friends, only to have one person try to control the discussion?

From networking to emotional support, your “team” is comprised of people who can make or break your goals. Everyone has different strengths, and you can’t follow your dreams without the right people by your side. Plus, if you don’t work well with others, you could burn out from the effort of trying to do everything alone.

So how can you learn how to be a good team player? Let’s dive into what makes a great team member and 10 tips for improving your teamwork skills at work.

Being a good collaborator takes more than just being liked by your colleagues. Sometimes it’s about making tough decisions for the benefit of the group or being the dissenting voice in a controversial meeting. Above all, a good team player has the following characteristics:

Accountability. Effective team players are accountable to themselves and to others. They take responsibility for their actions or mistakes and understand how their choices impact the team.

Flexibility. Adapting to change is a critical part of a team’s success. Strong collaborators are willing to take on new challenges to support their peers and tweak deadlines for the greater good.

Positivity. A positive mental attitude keeps morale high. Teams value people who exude optimism.

Commitment. Successful team players believe in the group’s processes and team goals . They stand in solidarity with the rest of their members.

Integrity. The value of integrity is important in a team setting. A good colleague doesn’t just say “yes” to everything — they push back on ideas they think go against the team’s values.

Forbes listed “collaboration” as one of the top 10 skills employers look for in their employees — and with good reason. Collaborative team dynamics , where members feel safe to share ideas and lean on their partners, encourage productivity, efficiency, and innovation .

Teamwork also improves employee morale and overall well-being , as everyone feels valued and knows they can ask for help.

Collaboration is sought-after by employers, so consider expressing how you’re a team player on your resume and when answering interview questions . Bolster your collaboration skills with stats and team accomplishments.

People often misunderstand what makes a great team player. They think collaboration means saying yes to everything, not having boundaries, and never pushing back on bad ideas . But in reality, the opposite is true.

You have the ability to be an intelligent and capable member of a team. That means you shouldn’t be afraid of speaking up when needed. In fact, it’s probably expected of you . You need to recognize that you’re a valuable contributor and can participate in decision-making.

Here are 10 tips on how to be a better team player in the workplace:

1. Be a good communicator

Healthy communication skills are vital to your professional development. Actively listening , relaying your ideas clearly, and taking and receiving feedback effectively will help you advance quicker and connect with your team .

Strong communicators also know how to check in with themselves and others so they’re always on the same wavelength. This means being self-aware , practicing empathy , and improving emotional regulation . Y ou can support others better if you understand your biases and triggers and can put yourself in their shoes.

2. Be a problem-solver

Your team will face challenges. Critical thinking and problem-solving are essential t o collaborate effectively and overcome these hurdles. Be ready to suggest creative solutions when brainstorming with your colleagues.

3. Know your role (and your limits)

You should know what’s expected of you and how your role fits within the team. You should also be realistic about how much you can take on. Others depend on you, so make sure you can deliver.

4. Take initiative

Taking the initiative means helping prevent problems before they happen. It also means addressing them as soon as they appear, if and when they do. Be ready to spring into action before someone asks you to. Your initiative may inspire others to be more proactive.

5. Stick to your deadlines

Someone is waiting for you to finish your work so they can do theirs. Use your time management skills so you don't let them down. This will make you a valuable and dependable team player.

6. Know your strengths

Most projects go through a planning phase where everyone’s assigned tasks. Be transparent about your abilities and help people understand how you can contribute. Ask for jobs that take advantage of your skillset .

7. Support and be supported

High-performing teams feel supported and validated by one another. Motivate your team by sharing positive feedback , expressing gratitude for their hard work , and asking them often if they need help. Just make sure you don’t take on more than you can chew.

8. Share information

Found a useful online resource? Send it to your team. Worked on similar projects before? Share your experience. This information exchange will help everyone produce better work and problem-solve difficult challenges easier.

9. Understand your team’s objectives

You can easily hinder progress toward shared goals if you don’t know about or comprehend them. Make sure you understand overall objectives to gain perspective on your tasks and understand how your work depends on others.

Here are a few questions to ask yourself:

Do I understand the company’s overall mission ?
Does my manager know what I’m prioritizing and why?
How do my deadlines affect my teammates’ progress?

10. Be open-minded

Teamwork is about bringing together a diverse set of individuals with unique perspectives and skills. Practice mental flexibility by being open to different approaches and techniques. You’ll learn something new and encourage your coworkers to share innovative ideas.

With these tips in mind, you’re on your way to proving yourself as the ideal team player.

Being a good team player is about balancing leadership and collaboration. You’re a vital part of the team, even if you’re not the team lead.

Remember that no matter your role, you can’t build a successful team if you don’t trust each other. Your job is to help one another shine — and you don’t need to be a team leader to make that happen.

Being a follower

At work, you know how important it is to have a manager that can handle pressure while regulating their emotions and supporting their team. A good leader inspires a team to follow their example and keeps their door open for feedback. If you know that someone has your back, you might be more willing to take risks that can benefit the team.

Even if you’re not in charge, you can demonstrate integrity and ambition. Your leadership skills can still shine through as you follow someone else’s lead. For example, offering solutions to problems as they arise is one way to show the spirit of leadership.

Supporting your fellow team members is also key to being a great team player. Finally, make sure that you respect your manager and listen to what they have to say — but don’t be afraid to speak up if you have an idea that will help everyone out.

Being a leader

The more you embody the spirit of a leader, the better your team will perform . You should pay attention to everyone’s strengths and weaknesses. From there, you can help delegate tasks accordingly. Don’t try to exercise power over others. Instead, influence people to be self-motivated to do their best.

Also, be sure to remain open to feedback from your team members. This will help everyone go about their work with confidence .

Business-People-Having-Discussion-In-Office

Don’t micromanage your team, but don’t abandon them, either. Find the right balance, and your team will thank you for it.

There are plenty of difficult employees to go around. You will invariably have to work with one at some point in your career. Bad teammates hurt team morale, cause resentment among group members, and overall sabotage the efficiency of the team.

Here’s how to recognize a bad teammate — and make sure you don’t become one:

1. They could care less

It feels impossible to motivate them . They don’t participate in team discussions, they’re inattentive, and they do the bare minimum to get through the day. They also produce poor-quality work.

2. Responsibility means nothing to them

They complain rather than propose solutions. They prefer to point fingers instead of sharing responsibility for a problem. If the entire group makes a mistake, poor teammates deny that they had anything to do with it.

3. It’s their way or the highway

They’re allergic to constructive criticism . They steamroll over other people’s ideas. They reject the possibility that others might have something to contribute.

4. Arrogance is their bliss

Bad colleagues dismiss other people’s ideas and double down on their point of view, even if they’re wrong. Their stubbornness brings the entire team down.

5. Jealousy comes naturally to them

Difficult coworkers are jealous when a colleague receives praise. They want to be the center of attention, even if that means bringing others down. They’ll be passive-aggressive toward that person and may even claim that person’s achievements as their own.

Working with a poor colleague can create a negative team environment . Thankfully, there are some things you can do :

K eep a positive attitude

Focus on your own achievements, as well as your teammates’
Don’t take it personally
Avoid working with them if you can
Try to suggest amicable solutions to conflicts that arise

And, if they become truly unbearable, you can report them to your manager.

These days, it’s almost impossible to be a lone wolf. Nearly all jobs require working with people. Your approach and your attitude will determine whether others enjoy working with you. Be confident in your skills, use your voice, and support your colleagues. Your team will be lucky to have you.

Learning how to be a good team player isn’t easy. Consider working with a mentor or coach who can hold you accountable along the way . They’ll work with you to set goals, develop your skills, and help you become the best team player you can be.

Lead with confidence and authenticity

Develop your leadership and strategic management skills with the help of an expert Coach.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

The best way to set team goals

8 team bonding activities to increase engagement and collaboration, nonverbal communication in the workplace: the secret to team trust, 11 communication skills every leader should have, how to have more impact peer coaching can accelerate team performance, love them or hate them, meetings promote social learning and growth, building the human transformation company: the principles that shape our future, getting a new manager how to (stop panicking and) make the most of it, the secret to developing managers that help your business thrive, similar articles, how to make yourself indispensable at work: pro tips, teamwork skills self-appraisal comments: 40 example phrases, team collaboration 101: learning the art of working together, 30 team building exercises for the 2024 workplace, want to thrive at work learn these essential teamwork skills, why building great work relationships is more than just getting along, 14 icebreaker games for small groups that help build coworker connections, celebrate success with appreciation for good work messages and quotes, leadership activities that encourage employee engagement, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

3100 E 5th Street, Suite 350 Austin, TX 78702

Platform Overview
Integrations
Powered by AI
BetterUp Lead
BetterUp Manage™
BetterUp Care™
Sales Performance
Diversity & Inclusion
Case Studies
Why BetterUp?
About Coaching
Find your Coach
Career Coaching
Communication Coaching
Life Coaching
News and Press
Leadership Team
Become a BetterUp Coach
BetterUp Labs
Center for Purpose & Performance
Leadership Training
Business Coaching
Contact Support
Contact Sales
Privacy Policy
Acceptable Use Policy
Trust & Security
Cookie Preferences

Qualities That Make A Good Team Member

A good team member will demonstrate several key qualities and will be able to contribute effectively to the team goals. The key qualities include communication, commitment, empathy, active listening, adaptability, flexibility, emotional stability, time management, owning responsibility and assertiveness, positive attitude, honesty etc. These are a combination of qualities, strengths, traits, values or skills. The set of qualities that a team member needs to possess and demonstrate also depends on the type of profession the team member belongs to e g in customer service, project management or medical support teams, different set of qualities may be considered essential.

The strength of any team is each individual member and the strength of each member is the team. (Phil Jackson). A good team member will strive for excellence, which helps achieving the team’s goals and eventually the success of any organisation.

The MedicineNursing and Health care sectors require professionally qualified personnel, and having efficient teams with competent team members with a synergy between teams within these sectors is extremely vital.

The operations in these sectors require high functioning teams wherein, there is a nearly accurate coordination and cooperation between different teams (Doctors, Nurses, Administrators other Non-medical staff and other stakeholders e g support workers, social workers, voluntary organisations and others) is required. A Nurse is a frontline warrior of the team who is in direct and maximum contact and communication with the patients compared to others in the sector, and as a good team member, has to demonstrate the required qualities, and to contribute for mutual support within the team itself during stressful times, besides rendering efficient services to the patients service users.

Proficient in: Qualities

“ Ok, let me say I’m extremely satisfy with the result while it was a last minute thing. I really enjoy the effort put in. ”

There are sectors wherein a team member can put the head down, finish own work targets and that completes their contribution to the team e g a cashier, a plumber, a factory worker and such others. However, a Nurse, being in a profession that requires utmost responsibility towards the patients and other stakeholders, has to demonstrate a specific set of qualities viz. commitment, empathy, kindness, communication, interpersonal, emotional stability, compassion, time management, working in pressure, multi-tasking, time management, attention to detail, patience, adaptability, flexibility, prioritising, active listening, problem-solving, supporting and respecting others, physical stamina, ethics, self-motivation, a desire to learn (and CPD), a willingness to share knowledge and owning responsibility etc. There is nothing like a typical day for a Nurse (and so, for several other professions). For a Nurse, each day is full of newer challenges and hence a Nurse has to be on hisher toes, with unbeatable commitment, stamina and composure. A good sense of humor will also help all including the Nurse in easing the tense moments and take informed and prudent decisions!

At conscious or sub-conscious level, a good team member in any sector, echoes in hisher daily work, the words of Maya Angelou ‘’I have learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.’’

Cite this page

Qualities That Make A Good Team Member. (2021, Dec 21). Retrieved from https://paperap.com/qualities-that-make-a-good-team-member/

"Qualities That Make A Good Team Member." PaperAp.com , 21 Dec 2021, https://paperap.com/qualities-that-make-a-good-team-member/

PaperAp.com. (2021). Qualities That Make A Good Team Member . [Online]. Available at: https://paperap.com/qualities-that-make-a-good-team-member/ [Accessed: 12 May. 2024]

"Qualities That Make A Good Team Member." PaperAp.com, Dec 21, 2021. Accessed May 12, 2024. https://paperap.com/qualities-that-make-a-good-team-member/

"Qualities That Make A Good Team Member," PaperAp.com , 21-Dec-2021. [Online]. Available: https://paperap.com/qualities-that-make-a-good-team-member/. [Accessed: 12-May-2024]

PaperAp.com. (2021). Qualities That Make A Good Team Member . [Online]. Available at: https://paperap.com/qualities-that-make-a-good-team-member/ [Accessed: 12-May-2024]

Qualities Of A Good Waiter Pages: 3 (711 words)
Qualities Of A Good Nurse Pages: 3 (673 words)
Pros And Cons Of APEC for Member Countries Pages: 2 (400 words)
The Forgotten Group Member Case Analysis Pages: 6 (1508 words)
A wolf is a wild carnivorous mammal which is the largest member Pages: 3 (840 words)
Cooking a meal for someone whether it be a family member significant Pages: 4 (959 words)
To kill a mocking bird. Admirable qualities of Atticus Finch Pages: 3 (681 words)
Discuss how the aesthetic qualities of at least two poems have been Pages: 5 (1227 words)
Atticus Finch Qualities Pages: 4 (942 words)
Mukesh Ambani Leadership Qualities Pages: 5 (1249 words)

Coach Portal

Executive Coaching
Leadership Training
Executive Presence
Manager Development
Team Assessment & Alignment
Executive Team Development
New Leader Assimilation
Presentation & Orals Coaching
Change Strategy & Training
Strategic Planning & Board Services
Culture Assessment & Integration
Organizational Design
Employee Experience
Succession & Workforce Planning
Career Management
Promote Diversity Equity & Inclusion
Competency Modeling
LEAD NOW! Model
LEAD NOW! All Access
Teaming For Success Model
Assessments
Certifications
Facilitation
Client Success Stories
Clients & Partners
Join Our Team
Ask A Coach
Blog Articles
Leadership Lessons
LEAD NOW! Videos
White Papers
Leadership Growth Hour
LEAD NOW! Certifications
Teaming For Success Certifications
Connect With Us
Assessment Center

9 Traits of an Ideal Team Member

--> Executive Teams ,--> Teaming ,--> Teaming for Success -->