A well-functioning team achieves its goals faster and better. Five people do not simply solve a task five times as quickly - they achieve much more. They bring in different experiences, complement each other, and develop new ideas together. But people are not machines. Everyone has their own views, habits, and ways of working. Sometimes tensions arise: one person may not particularly like another. A team member believes they work more than the others. Or someone feels unheard.

This mix makes teamwork exciting - and sometimes complicated. In this guide, you will learn how to communicate better with your teammates. You will learn how to contribute as a team member or support your team as a leader. With the right skills, a group becomes a strong team.

Basic Rules of Team Communication

Good communication is the basis of teamwork. Speak clearly and directly with your colleagues. Say what you need and what you can contribute. Listen attentively to others and ask if you don't understand something.

Meetings take up a lot of time. Don't ask unnecessary questions if you understand almost everything. Instead, ask directly the colleague in charge. This way, you save the time of team members who already understand everything. Respond briefly and clearly - especially in online meetings post-COVID, time management is crucial.

Feedback is a part of everyday team life. Praise your colleagues for good work and creative ideas. Don't hesitate! Everyone appreciates when their work is acknowledged. When others recognize your performance, work becomes more enjoyable. Remain constructive in the face of problems. Describe specific situations and make suggestions for improvement.

Special rules apply in digital teams. Write short, clear messages. Respond promptly to inquiries. Turn on your camera during video calls - this creates closeness. Plan regular team discussions to keep everyone on the same page.

Problems grow like a snowball. As a team member, you don't decide whether a problem is small or big. Either you fix it immediately yourself or inform the team leader. Often, it is easier to correct something quickly today - even if you don't feel like it - than to face a major problem a year later.

Your Role as a Team Member, If You Are Not a Team Leader

As a team member, you are an important part of the whole. Your task is to contribute your skills while supporting others. Know your strengths - and use them. But also recognize your limitations and communicate them openly.

A common trap: You take on too many tasks because you don't want to disappoint anyone. This leads to stress and poorer results. Clearly state what you can handle and what you cannot. Your team relies on you. It's better to honestly say "No" than not deliver later.

Help your colleagues when you have time. But don't force yourself on them. Sometimes, someone may want to solve a task alone - and that's okay. Offer your support, but also accept a "No". Similarly, you may accept help when you need it.

Be open to new ideas from your colleagues. Criticize constructively, but don't stubbornly defend your standpoint. Often, the best solutions arise when different approaches are combined. A good team member doesn't think in terms of "my idea" and "your idea", but rather in "our solution".

Being a Team Leader

As a team leader, you stand between the boss and the team. You have more responsibility, but you are not a typical superior. Your main task: Keeping the team functional and delivering results.

Assign tasks according to strengths. Know your team members - who is particularly good at what? Who wants to develop new skills? Speak individually with each person and find the best position in the team. An overwhelmed employee harms the entire team.

Be approachable for problems. Respond quickly to questions and difficulties. Sometimes, a brief conversation is enough to avoid major issues. Listen when team members express concerns. They often see risks you may have overlooked.

Keep your team together. Encourage exchange among members. Create space for shared successes, but also for open discussions. Act early in conflicts - but remain neutral. Your role is not to judge, but to find solutions.

Working in a Team: Achieving Together!

Successes strengthen every team. A well-completed project, crisis resolved, or positive customer feedback - all these moments bond the team. Celebrate not only major milestones with your team, but also small progress. This motivates everyone and shows: Together, we achieve our goals.

After each project, a short review is worthwhile. Speak openly with the team: What worked well? Where can we improve? Document the most important points - they will help with future tasks. Never look for blame when something didn't go perfectly. Instead, focus on how to do it better next time.

A successful team grows together. Actively share your knowledge with others, learn from your colleagues' experiences. Especially new team members need support in the beginning. Help them to get up to speed quickly. The stronger each individual becomes, the better the entire team works.

Always remember: Teamwork is like a marathon, not a sprint. Good teams develop over time. They build trust, get to know each other better, and increase their performance step by step. With the right skills and a positive attitude, strong individuals come together to form a team that achieves great things together.

Would you like to learn more about personnel development and leadership qualities? In our articles on Human Resources you will find important tips for your professional development. Also explore our contributions on leadership skills - they will help you understand and fulfill your role in the team even better.