阅读教程 基础篇2 第四版 教参Unit7 T Teamwork.docVIP

PAGE PAGE 10 Unit 7 团队合作 Related Background Information What is Teamwork? Teamwork is defined in Webster’s New World Dictionary as “a joint action by a group of people, in which each person subordinates his or her individual interests and opinions to the unity and efficiency of the group.” This does not mean that the individual is no longer important; however, it does mean that effective and efficient teamwork goes beyond individual accomplishments. The most effective teamwork is produced when all the individuals involved harmonize their contributions and work towards a common goal. Teamwork has become an important part of the working culture and many businesses now look at teamwork skills when evaluating a person for employment. Most companies realize that teamwork is important because either the product is sufficiently complex that it requires a team with multiple skills to produce, and/or a better product will result when a team approach is taken. The following are eight characteristics of effective teams that were identified by Larson and LaFasto in their book titled Teamwork: What Must Go Right/What Can Go Wrong (Sage Publications 1989). The team must have a clear goal. Team goals should call for a specific performance objective, expressed so concisely that everyone knows when the objective has been met. The team must have a results-driven structure. The team should be allowed to operate in a manner that produces results. It is often best to allow the team to develop the structure. The team must have competent team members. The team must have unified commitment. This doesnt mean that team members must agree on everything. It means that all individuals must be directing their efforts towards the goal. The team must have a collaborative climate. It is a climate of trust produced by honest, open, consistent and respectful behavior. The team must have high standards that are understood by all. The team must receive external support and encouragement