Many qualities of a teammate can be measured. This goes for paid staff and volunteer staff. For example, the number of teens that attend a youth group or the amount of leaders you have on your team. These are what I call tangibles. They are measurable and important.
Let’s talk about intangibles. The qualities you could possess that set you apart and will excel your team into great success. The characteristics that aren’t in your face or even all that sexy to speak about. These intangibles will create great team chemistry.
I believe these 8 intangibles are what make a team member invaluable and a winner. When multiple team members have unity in these areas, your team will not only be mature, but also be professional.
1. Encouragement-
Set the atmosphere in the workplace by being an encourager. Don’t wait to be encouraged. You go first. This simple act will set the tone and establish groundwork for years of unity and momentum.
2. Accountability-
A good staff member is accountable to the organization’s leader. A great staff member is accountable to his leader and peers. In order to become successful you must put away once and for all the defensive posture against authentic accountability. It will make you and your team better. Accountability helps the team overcome the It’s-All-About-Me mentality.
3. Confidence-
Demonstrate that you are not only confident in yourself, but your workmates and leader as well. Confidence is contagious and essential for the overcomer. There is a difference between being cocky and confident. When you walk into a room with cockiness eyes begin to roll, guards are automatically up and all the attention has shifted towards you. On the other hand, when you walk in with confidence, the room is at ease; people believe in what the cause is about and synergy is built.
4. Commitment-
Be committed to your teammate, the cause, the vision and yourself. When times get tough and you grow weary, you will find the extra push if you are committed to the end. Don’t be a quitter.
5. Consideration-
Why fight over small things like space, use of facilities, or calendar conflicts? Be considerate of each other and be aware that you are not the only person on the team. It is not all about you. Be thoughtful of others. Remember you are one part of a very big vision.
6. Enthusiasm-
Want to win? Be enthusiastic. Want to lose? Be slothful. It is quite simple. Winners attract other winners through their intentional and authentic enthusiasm. Nobody wants to partner with a whiner. And the ones that do shouldn’t be part of your team. You attract who you are. Laugh. Have fun. Smile. Be Christ-like.
7. Intensity-
Be intense. Be exceptional. Be energetic. Be real. Your focus will be extraordinary when mixed with intensity. Your teammates will come alongside you eagerly when you show a degree of strength.
8. Loyalty-
The greater staff member you are, the more this area will be tested. I don’t know if this ever stops. But take it to the bank—your loyalty will be tested.
I have succeeded in this area more than I have failed, but I have failed. I have given ear to the bad seed sowers about how things in the organization could be better, should be better, would be better if only YOU would do something. Don’t give in to such demonic flattery. Be strong and be loyal to the Senior Leader. He is accountable to God for the vision God has given him.
As a matter of fact, you are accountable to God for protecting the senior leader, shutting down the divisive spirit and advancing the senior leader’s vision. This is one reason you are a trusted member of the leader’s team.
The most shocking and disheartening truth is this demonic influence and nudging can come from a fellow staff member. Let me be clear; do not allow this behavior to proceed. It will be costly.
Every lie has a thread of truth. Even if this person’s logic seems right, quickly recognize it as a trick of the enemy to divide the organization.
These intangibles increase your value and you will be sought after and victorious. Be steady, be strong and be very successful.
What are some intangibles that come to your mind when being part of a team?