Do you consider yourself a good team player? The very core of being a team player is found in addressing the question; WHY IS A TEAM’s FUNCTIONING IMPORTANT? The answer is found in the acronym:
Successful teams are not always the best in ability but when their abilities are combined with applied high degree of team building character traits that are unified they are difficult to beat by any team. As a team player you have a critical part to play in the formulation that makes up a successful team. Ask any elite or non-elite coach and they will tell you the importance of building a champion team rather than a team of champions. The following is a checklist for self-appraisal in terms of determining if you have what it takes to be a team player.
HOW DO YOU FAIR?
TEAM-BUSTING BEHAVIORS
- Talking behind others’ backs
- Blaming others – Refusing to accept responsibility
- Scape-goating or picking on certain teammates
- Jealousy
- Complaining about playing time
- Having a negative attitude
- Bad mouthing teammates or coach
- Being dishonest in your relationships with coach & teammates
- "I’m the greatest and you’re pond scum" attitude
- Yelling at teammates when they make mistakes
- Not communicating directly/openly
- Being defensive
- Dogging it or giving a half-hearted effort
- Being a poor sport
TEAM-BUILDING BEHAVIORS
- Being supportive
- Dealing with conflicts directly and openly
- Being understanding
- Demonstrating respect for coach/teammates
- Being encouraging to teammates when they mess up
- Accepting your assigned role on the team
- Having a positive attitude
- Listening
- Having an open mind
- Understanding that everyone on the team is important for success
- Not allowing team-busting behaviors to occur
- Taking responsibility for your actions
- Going full out/trying as hard as you can
- Being a good sport
Source: various
