Simple tips for building a stronger sense of ‘team’ at work

As the new year starts, you might have made a resolution to improve your working relationships and the sense of teamwork among your pharmacy’s staff. Teams in healthcare are crucial because members must work together to achieve optimal patient care.Creating a sense of “team” among your colleagues can make a big difference and often starts with small actions, according to a recent commentary in the British Medical Journal (BMJ).Some useful tips from the commentary are summarized below:Any team member can lead. Encourage all members of the team to share ideas and take initiative to help with team-building.Make regular opportunities for the team to connect. This can have a significant impact on building strong relationships. Even small interactions, such as regular informal coffee chats, contribute to a deeper sense of being a unit.Creating a strong sense of team at work is essential for nurturing connection, trust and shared purpose. Take time to articulate the team’s mission, values and collective goals. When teams feel connected, supported and united under a common purpose, they’re more effective and also more fulfilled in their work.Acknowledge team and individual accomplishments to foster a positive culture. Highlight strengths and achievements; this reinforces a sense of belonging, motivates the team and builds mutual respect.Creating a sense of team is not something that happens by accident. Identify key moments and small acts that can help to bring the team together. Commit to doing these things regularly no matter what else is going on, to create “team rituals.” For example, during weekly team meetings, start by asking everyone a simple question, such as “What is your favourite possession?” Answering these simple questions each week allows team members the opportunity to connect with each other. The answers can range from funny, to surprising, and in some cases are very moving.Active communication is needed. Make sure staff members know that others cannot read our minds. If someone needs help, they should ask for it. Sharing needs and wants—and asking for, and listening to the needs and wants of others—can also help build a good sense of team.Reference:Rimmer A. How do we create a sense of team? BMJ 2024;387:q2826. (accessed January 13, 2025).

Simple tips for building a stronger sense of ‘team’ at work

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