According to the dictionary, the definition for responsibility is, a state or fact of having a duty to deal with, the state or fact of being accountable or to blame for something, and the opportunity or ability to act independently and make decisions without authorization. Personal responsibility is crucial to team building and collaborative success. When one takes personal responsibility, they are admitting their responsibility for choices made. While not everyone’s commitments are the same, personal responsibility is a requirement when working in a team. In order to succeed, the team needs positive communication, commitment, and accountability.
The first, most important requirement, when working in a team is positive communication. Having open communication, by sharing ideas and confirming tasks with positive feedback, fosters healthy communication. Also, it’s always a smart idea to make sure there is a clear understanding of everyone’s position on a team, that way everyone is on the “same page”. Lastly, respecting one another is crucial in supporting positive communication.
Making a commitment to ones self or something, let alone a team, can be extremely difficult at times. One way of showing respect and commitment is to always be on time, and being prepared. Also, let it be known to the team that, availability will not be an issue, and whatever it takes to get the job done, will be done. Taking ownership gives a team relief in knowing the job will get done and will alleviate stress from team members.
Lastly, in order for a team to succeed, the team needs to hold each other accountable. Keeping an impeccable word shows team members respect and reliability coming from the work presented. Being accountable for assigned part, team members should gather reliable information. By accepting accountability for the team as a whole, one must assume personal responsibility.