“Teamwork is overrated; I’m a lone wolf”

Shocked? Good. Now, let me explain why this statement is WRONG.

We are all part of a team in one way or another, and in today’s complex business landscape:

– 86% of employees cite a lack of effective communication and collaboration for workplace failures

– Companies promoting collaborative working are 5x more likely to be high-performing

I’ve seen a good few companies that work in silos – the outcomes are never pretty for the organisation.

Even in single-player sports (tennis, golf, athletics, etc.), athletes rely on a diverse support team to perform at their best. For example, Rafa Nadal has a team of seven: a player, coach, manager, physical therapist, personal trainer, press agent, and assistant coach. They are not lone wolves.

Teamwork isn’t just important—it’s critical.

But here’s the catch: True teamwork goes beyond just ‘working’ together.

It’s more about:

– Synergy: Where 1+1=3 – your team needs to be greater than the sum of its parts.

– Trust: The foundation of all great teams

– Diversity: Different perspectives and skillsets driving innovation and expertise

Have you ever been part of a team that made you feel invincible? What made it special? I believe the team around you is your superpower…. or it can be your kryptonite!

I felt that twice in my football career—first at Chelsea in 88/89 when we went unbeaten for 27 league games and second at Leeds in 91/92 when we went unbeaten at Elland Road for the whole season. It didn’t happen often, but it was what we always strived for.

What are your experiences?

#TeamworkMakesTheDreamWork #Collaboration #DreamTeam #Leadership