One of the greatest aids to understanding teamwork has quite probably been television. We watch hockey, football, basketball and other Team sports. We have loved and hated players (the latter being ones who generally they play for the other team and are particularly good at their profession). We cheer our teams on; we rejoice in their success and feel the pain of their losses.

The concept of teamwork is not limited to just the field or arena however and there are many important lessons we should learn and apply to how we approach business. But first, let's take a look at what the word "team" means. There are a number of definitions but one that I particularly subscribe to is this one. "A team is a group of people who go out of their way to make each other look good." So, can you say that applies to everyone in your office?

If not, don't get too discouraged because it does take discipline and leadership to build a good team regardless of their focus in life. Is it worth the work? Well, let's take a quick look at some of the benefits of a group playing or working together as a team?

A good team has a defined objective that ensures that everyone is working towards the same goal. It can be to win the Stanley Cup, the Super Bowl, anything that demonstrates that you have been successful in your approach, planning and dedication. With clear objectives there is little confusion about what will need to be done and who is responsible for what. There is little wasted energy and effort. There are NO expectations since everyone has a clearly defined role for which they are responsible. An example is how a wolf pack works together for a common objective. They instinctively know that individually they can never take down their kill, but as a pack they can. They exist because they perform as a team.

It goes without saying that no two people are the same. Each of us possesses different skills, interests and desires. A good coach is able to understand and utilize the value of an individual in a way that allows them to be successful within the team; creating greater satisfaction. With each team member being successful and supported within their role, they trust and respect the individual talents each possesses and understand the loss to the team if one part should be gone. At the end of the day what the team delivers is better quality in the game or value in the product.

A team that works in harmony is far more appreciated by their customer. Look at the Montreal Canadians as an example. Night after night and year after year they sell out the Forum because, although they may not win all the time, their fans know that they will get their money's worth. In much the same manner a businesses clients recognize when a company works together. When they have a question or a need they are efficiently handed off to the resident expert or skill set that can address and satisfy their need. A customer senses when there is synergy within an organization the same way you know what players on your favourite team don't support or work as well with others. So how do you want your customers to perceive you and your company?

A successful team experiences success which will feed upon itself. You have seen how teams are supercharged and energized after a big win. You see it and feel it. What happens in your office when a big sale comes through or a new launch is successful? With success the players want to stay with the club and similarly your employees will want to stay with the company. Look at the advantage of not having to search for, hire and train new employees. Your team stays intact longer and morale is maintained as a result.

The above are just a few of the benefits; the most obvious ones really. But more subtle ones accrue the longer the team is together and successful. The big question is how do you build a team? It's not easy but there are a few guidelines that when adhered to certainly start to move things in a positive direction. Every good team needs a coach or a leader - the changes must start at the top of the organization. The leader must set the example. The leader must work harder than anyone else and lead by example. They must be able to articulate exactly what they want to achieve and what role every team member must be responsible for. The team must understand the roles of others so that they know how they fit into the overall scheme. When they do, repetition is eliminated and the trust begins to build, and respect for what each member contributes is formed.

Take for example hockey - the role and requirements of each position is understood by the other players so they can move the puck effectively and quickly from zone to zone. It is not uncommon to see a player make a blind pass to another. They do this because they know that a team member is going to be there to pick it up and fulfill their part of the play. In business, one employee must trust that what they are getting from another has had sufficient attention to detail that they need not worry about it and can then add their expertise to the product or solution achieving a timely and quality delivery.

Don't hold back on praise. Remember, you get more bees with honey. When the team works well together acknowledge it. When a part fails, coach it. Review the benefits to all when things go well and the impact of one piece not delivering as it should. As the team comes together it is important to understand the time to coach and lead and the time to let go and let the players manage alone. Don't micro-manage. Let them experiment and work together to solve problems and develop new solutions.

Finally, be patient and consistent. It takes time to build a team. But it is time well spent!