Almost every profession values a successful team player. If you are able to contribute positively in a team environment at work, chances are that you will eventually do well for yourself also. Working as part of team is an acquired skill and can be learned over time.

The first step is to have an open, co-operative attitude to all other members of the team. This includes staying away from the troublemakers and gossip mongers who intentionally promote conflict among team members.

It is important to help and motivate other members of the team. This may be in the form of asking for suggestions, valuing their inputs and also encouraging others to go ahead with their ideas.

Again a successful team player is careful to develop a good working relationship with the team leader or the supervisor. This means supporting him or her on team issues and valuing their feedback on your work.

Every team values a problem solver. Instead of cribbing and complaining that the task at hand is too difficult, find ways to solve it. Enlist the help of your team members and if necessary ask for expert guidance outside the team. When the boss or supervisor sees you taking on challenges and getting results in team projects, you can be sure that you are on your way up the professional ladder.

-Kalyani Mookherji