Understanding Personality & Diversity in team relationships @ work;

In addressing personality and diversity in team relationships at work, it is important to note that we are all uniquely different – our personalities determine how we perceive our environment, how we respond to people (or team), and to things happening around us. People are born with natural personalities but can also be influenced by upbringing or  relationships.

‘Ultimately, your personality could be described as the face you show the world, the you others get to know’ Cris Wildermuth*

Personality reflects individual behaviour, and differs from one person to another.

Diversity is basically associated with differences in culture, race or social orientation of various individuals. Individual personalities can adapt to the culture or social orientation they are associated with, however, this does not change the core of ones personality inwardly. 

To build a good rapport and achieve success working as part of a team, it is vital to understand  personality traits in relation to diverse cultures and how to harness these positively to achieve effective teamwork.  

5 ways to build great team relationships considering team personality & diversity;

  1. Be an impartial team leader: Do not show favoritism, but treat every member of the team respectfully. Respect is reciprocal and will create an atmosphere of camaraderie.
  2. Be clear on the goal and ensure roles are assigned by taking into account team personality types. Strengths and weaknesses will vary based on personalities and cultural orientation. It is vital to allow team members to function in their positions of strength for more desirable outcomes.
  3. Understand your team members by being a good listener, pay attention to signs of conflict which you can be identified through verbal communication and body language. This may differ with personalities and culture. Often times, you may be able to prevent unnecessary conflicts if there is a culture of good communication within the team.
  4. Give corrections with an element of praise where possible. I.e. acknowledge areas they have done well while highlighting their shortfall. This nurtures a sense of appreciation that encourages the team member to do better.
  5. Use encouraging words to motivate your team members, to maximise their performance and ensure best positive team spirit.

Applying these tips strategically, will more likely result in effective teamwork no matter what the team personality or cultural orientation may be. 

 

 

*Cris Wildermuth, Ed.D., SPHR (PERSONALITY DIVERSITY 2013)

This blog is updated by Georgi David in association with other certified people development mentors; (Categories cover; Employability skills, Emotional intelligence, Leadership skills and Human resources development). The aim is to empower our readers to manage their work performance and deal with confidence issues that form barriers to achieving personal and professional goals.

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