Global Perspectives – Communication and collaboration | e-Consult

Teamwork, while beneficial, often presents challenges. Three common challenges include conflicts in opinions, unequal workload distribution, and lack of motivation.

Conflicts in opinions can arise when team members have different ideas about how to approach a task. To overcome this, the team can establish clear guidelines for respectful debate, ensuring everyone has a chance to express their views. Active listening is crucial. The team can also use compromise – finding solutions that incorporate elements of different perspectives. For example, if two team members disagree on the best research method, they could try both methods and compare the results.

Unequal workload distribution can lead to resentment and decreased morale. To address this, the team should collaboratively create a task list and assign responsibilities based on individual skills and availability. Regular check-ins can help identify if someone is feeling overwhelmed and needs assistance. Rotating tasks can also ensure a more equitable distribution of workload. For instance, if one team member is better at writing, they could take on the majority of the writing tasks.

Lack of motivation can be a significant obstacle. To combat this, the team can set realistic goals and celebrate small successes. Providing positive feedback and recognizing individual contributions can boost morale. Creating a supportive and inclusive environment where team members feel valued and respected is also important. For example, the team could have a weekly 'wins' session to acknowledge progress and celebrate achievements. Open communication about individual struggles can also help foster a sense of camaraderie and mutual support.