Redefining the Meaning of Teamwork

Redefining the Meaning of Teamwork

#4

August 3, 2013

We often feel motivated at work based on our personal interests or maybe to help others. Often, creative moments serve as a catalyst for getting us up and implementing cutting edge projects. Motivation can be a great thing or a drain on resources depending on how you manage your time and team. Moreover, some freelance projects may unintentionally result in an "us" versus "them" mentality under the guise of being a unified team. 

For example, once teams are created they evolve and are evergreen based on the work they need to complete on time and under budget as well as how they relate to each other. Teamwork is similar to waves in which members of the team ebb and flow in and out of the group with a direct impact on those that remain as well as the workload. As an Organizational Freelancer, it is challenging to maintain "team" boundaries because you are always moving from one team to the next on various projects. Team lines may become blurred in the process. It is easy to get connected to people only to move on to new projects and switch sides in the eyes of former colleagues.

The challenge is staying motivated as transitions in teams and work continue to occur. There are two types of teams: 

• primary work colleagues 
• those in other organizations where your freelance endeavors are focused

Change in organizations and teams can influence our ability to stay focused on assignments. One way to stay motivated is to accept the people on your evolving teams as individuals without judgment.

People move on from groups and the work remains. An Organizational Freelancer may need to leverage flexibility, project management skills and patience to keep the evergreen team progressing towards their goals. 

Also, consider expanding your definition of the meaning of teamwork to include those outside one one's primary work group. Creative and innovative ideas happen when we partner with diverse individuals. Therefore, it is crucial to omit the "us" versus "them" concept of teams in your work environment and vocabulary. 

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