You know the saying: Teamwork makes the dream work.

Each member of your team brings their own unique perspectives and strengths to the table. But when each individual works together, your entire organization benefits from the collective effort. Companies that promote collaboration and communication tend to have lower employee turnover rates. Plus, about 75% of employees rate teamwork as being very important.

Writer Tracy Middleton says the benefits of teamwork extend far beyond your company’s bottom line. In this issue of PromoPro Daily, we share Middleton’s thoughts on some of the biggest benefits of teamwork. 

  1. Teamwork leads to better problem solving. Many brains are better than one. Science has shown that groups of three, four and five people outperform individuals. Working together allows people to play off each other’s knowledge and skills and create valuable solutions.
  2. Teamwork opens the door to innovation. Simply being around people with different backgrounds and viewpoints can change the way you think. Middleton says that some of the most innovative ideas happen at the place where different cultures and industries collide.
  3. Teamwork makes people happy. In a survey of more than 1,000 people, Middleton found that team members are happiest in workplaces where honest feedback, mutual respect and personal openness are encouraged.
  4. Teamwork enhances personal growth. Being part of a team can help you grow, Middleton says. You might pick up some new insights or strategies or learn from a co-worker’s mistakes.
  5. Teamwork lowers the risk of burnout. Sharing the load with co-workers can help lessen people’s stress. If they work in a similar role, they understand the demands of the job. Creating an environment where people work together and support each other can help ward off burnout.
  6. Teamwork creates growth opportunities. According to Middleton, collaboration in the workplace isn’t unlike teamwork on the baseball diamond. When the pitcher and outfielders each excel at their individual roles, the team has a better chance of winning.
  7. Teamwork elevates productivity. It’s great to be recognized by your boss, but it can feel extra meaningful when a co-worker gives you a shout-out. Middleton says that in some cases, having the respect of their peers is the top reason employees go the extra mile at work.
  8. Teamwork allows for smarter risk-taking. Knowing you have people on your side can make it easier to step outside your comfort zone. You don’t need a big group to reap the benefits, either. Middleton notes research from the Wharton Business School that shows that two-person teams took 36 minutes to build a Lego figure while four-person teams took 52 minutes – more than 44% longer.
  9. Teamwork leads to fewer mistakes. It all comes down to good energy. When you feel connected to your co-workers and you inspire and encourage each other, you’ll feel less stressed and will likely make fewer mistakes.

Teamwork shouldn’t be underestimated. If you’re not already doing so, try setting goals at the individual and team level. This can keep the concept of teamwork at the forefront and reinforce how important it is to work together.

Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: Tracy Middleton is an award-winning editor, writer and content strategist who contributes to the Atlassian blog.