Working with others

Understanding Roles and Responsibilities

Recognising the importance of individual roles within a team, whether it be as a leader, supporter or organiser.
Understanding your own responsibilities and obligations in a team setting: following protocols, respecting the rights of others, and delivering professional service.
Knowing when to ask for help or delegate tasks, recognising your own limitations and when others may be more suited to a task or have more capacity.

Communication and Cooperation

Effective teamwork hinges on communication. This includes clear instructions, discussing ideas or problems, sharing relevant information and listening to others.
Cooperating and collaboratively working towards common goals. This can involve planning together, drawing on each other’s strengths and sharing resources.
Learning how to give, receive and act on constructive feedback to improve performance and team dynamics.

Resolving Conflicts

The ability to detect, prevent and resolve conflicts is vital. This might involve mediating discussions, finding compromises, or considering suggestions impartially.
Remaining professional and respectful even during disputes, maintaining good relationships with colleagues and clients.
Understanding equality and diversity laws is important for recognising and challenging discrimination, unfair behaviour or inequality.

Motivation and Leadership

Discovering ways to motivate colleagues or team members, such as through encouragement, setting goals, recognising achievements and providing support.
Developing leadership skills, such as decision-making, risk assessment, problem-solving, organisation, and the ability to inspire others.
Aligning the team’s values, ethics and objectives to create a cohesive, motivated group, all contributing their best to their roles.

Adaptability and Flexibility

Being willing to adapt your approach to accommodate different personalities, abilities, preferences or circumstances within a team.
Having the flexibility to step into unfamiliar roles or tasks when needed, learning quickly and managing the unexpected in high-pressure situations.
Understanding that teams change – members join or leave, roles evolve, targets shift – and adapting successfully to these changes.

Promoting a Positive Work Environment

Taking steps to promote a positive working environment: ensuring safety, encouraging good communication, recognising and supporting mental and physical health.
Encouraging growth and development within the team, through training, mentoring or opportunities for progression.
Rewarding effort and success, and celebrating individual and collective achievements to maintain morale and motivation.

Respecting Professional Boundaries

Understanding and respecting the professional boundaries: respecting confidentiality, not taking advantage of your position, and maintaining an appropriate relationship with colleagues and clients.
Adhering to the company policies and code of conduct at all times, no matter the circumstance.
Recognising the implications and potential risks of breaching professional boundaries, including disciplinary action, damage to reputation or even legal consequences.