Improving Teamwork Effectiveness

Teamwork effectiveness can be improved by implementing three methods:

• Define the goals and purpose
• Capitalize on the strengths of individuals
• Reward the success of the group

Define the Goals and Purpose

The first step is defining the team's goals and purpose.  It is important to be very specific about what the purpose of the team is.  If everyone knows and is committed to the purpose, it will create an environment of cooperation.  Individual goals and purpose should also be defined.  If you connect individual goals to the success of the group you will eliminate negative competition in the group (Bakken, 2007).

Capitalize on the Strengths of Individuals

Teams can be successful because they combine the strengths of multiple individuals.  Every member of the group has a unique perspective and skill set; it is vital to create an environment where every individual can be heard and contribute.  By capitalizing on the strengths of individuals you will take advantage of all that teamwork has to offer.

Reward the Success of the Group

Acknowledging and rewarding the team's success can do wonders to keep the group motivated.  Whenever the group makes a significant step toward its goals, even if it’s a small step, it should be acknowledged. This will help the group work harder and stay focused on their purpose (Davis, 2012).

References

Bakken, E. (2007). Twelve Ways to Build an Effective Team. Retrieved fromhttp://people.rice.edu/uploadedFiles/People/TEAMS/Twelve%20Ways%20to%20Build%20an%20Effective%20Team.pdf

Davis, N. (March 15, 2012). Improving Teamwork in the Workplace. Retrieved fromhttp://www.prweb.com/releases/teamworktoptentips/successories/prweb9283619.htm

Professional Blogs Help Business

Professional blogs can help businesses in three ways.  First, they are a cost-efficient form of advertising.  Blogs are cheaper to maintain than many forms of advertising (Watts, 2013).  Second, blogs provide a medium for communicating with customers.  Businesses can instantaneously inform their followers about a new product or campaign and get feedback.  In a blog about Snapple's "Win Nothing" campaign, Amy Swanson shares her excitement about the campaign and asks others to comment on it (2013).  Last, blogs give companies a voice.  This helps businesses gain loyalty by becoming more than just a product and a name.  Thus all companies should create and maintain a professional blog.

References

Watts, D. (2013). 19 Reasons Why Your Business Should Be Writing a Blog. Sprout Content: The Business of Conversation. Retrieved from http://www.sproutcontent.com/blog/bid/106416/19-Reasons-Why-Your-Business-Should-Be-Writing-a-Blog

Swanson, A. (2013). “Win Nothing” and be Ecstatic about it with Snapple’s Latest Contest.  [Web log comment].  Retrieved from http://www.qualitylogoproducts.com/blog/win-nothing-snapples-latest-contest/