Teamwork conceptualized from Valley Crossing Exercise

Crossing the valley:

The activity below shows a group of three individuals, connected only by a pole, attempting to cross a valley.

The activity has three participants who are given a long rod which is carried by them on their shoulders, and then they have to cross a small crater as a group. There each person gets to be in motion for a few seconds without using their legs. The burden of the person in air is borne by the other two participants.

Analysis:

L1     L2     L3_______                               Step 1: All safe

R1     R2    R3

         L1     L2     L3                                    Step 2: Person 3 half safe

R1    R2     R3

         L1     L2     L3                                    Step 3: Person 3 full unsafe

         R1     R2     R3

                   L1     L2    L3                           Step 4: Person 2 and 3 partially safe

         R1     R2     R3

                   L1     L2    L3                           Step 5: Person 2 fully unsafe

                   R1     R2    R3

                             L1    L2    L3                  Step 6: Person 1 and 2 partially safe

                   R1     R2    R3

                             L1    L2    L3                  Step 7: Person 1 fully unsafe

                             R1    R2   R3

                                      L1    L2    L3         Step 8: Person 1 partially safe

                             R1    R2    R3

                                      L1    L2    L3         Step 9: Everyone is safe

                                      R1    R2   R3
L- Left foot
R-Right foot
___- Valley 

Teamwork:

The process of working together with a group of people in order to achieve a goal.
The team work is often a crucial part of a business as it is often necessary for colleagues to work well together, trying for the best in any circumstances. Team work often means people will try to cooperate, using their individual skills and providing constructive feedbacks, despite any personal conflicts between the individual.

· Effective communication: The communication between the team members should be free flowing, well channelized and directed towards achievement of project success. Also, communication between team members and team leaders should be a two way process.

· Strong leadership: The speed of the boss is the speed of the team. It is vital to have an efficient leader who can exhibit exemplary behavior. A good team leader is one who gives importance to team goals over his individual goals and is capable of showing direction and ensuring that the team members remain focused.

· Efficient delegation: Assigning responsibilities is as important as ensuring it is fulfilled perfectly. Therefore, it is essential to assign work as per the capability of team members.

· Conflict management: It is mandatory to resolve conflicts within the team. Even critical issues, when dealt with maturity, can be resolved easily without leaving a scar. Differences in opinion should not come in the way of the team’s performance.

· Trust: A term vital for any relationship also applies to a team-oriented environment. It is important to generate trust within the team. Team secrets, details of new projects or any new development within the team shouldn’t be divulged unless it is in the interest of the organization.

· Common goals: A team obviously is made of individuals with diverse opinions, often conflicting. The focus clearly is attainment of common goals. Therefore, it is vital to set aside personal points of view, be aware of organizational goals and work towards achieving targets together.

· Respect: To work in coordination, it is essential to understand and respect others in the team. Respect for each other’s competencies, views and actions will minimize conflicts, ensure smooth functioning and enhance productivity.

· Togetherness: A team signifies togetherness. As a unified unit, it should work on a common platform. It is advisable for organizations to take initiatives and organize team building exercises, excursions and monthly team meetings to strengthen team bonding.

· Avoiding negativity: Shun feelings of negativity, jealousy or ill-will. Do not participate in unproductive or unhealthy discussions.

. Setting a good example: Each team member, through his work, should set an example for others to follow. It can be done by outperforming the target, suggesting new ideas for policies and procedures or by participating in activities at the organizational level.