Working in customer service automatically makes you part of a team. Working on a team can be fun, motivating and rewarding however when there is poor communication between you and your team members it can be frustrating and leave you feeling cut off from the very team your supposed to be connecting with. Not sure if you really are a strong team member or only think you are? Take a look at these team-oriented do’s and don’ts with advice on how to fix your missteps and keep you on track.

Do air your differences – If you have a problem with someone on your team, talk to them about it.  If you let your feelings fester it will make you feel bitter and you’ll find yourself distancing yourself from your group and that is never good. You’ll feel better if you get your feelings out in the open and your team will be stronger for it. Just remember to be gentle in your approach and kind with your words.

Don’t be a blamer –If you are always pointing the finger at someone else as the cause for you not being able to get your job done the only one your fooling is yourself. Blaming never works, people know who isn’t pulling their weight on the team.  They will also understand if you weren’t able to get to something because of a heavy workload. Your co-workers will have a lot more respect for you if you fess up when you aren’t able to make a deadline.

Do be a cheerleader for other team members – When another person in your group has a suggestion always give it consideration, even if you think it’s the dumbest thing you’ve ever heard.  This will show your team that you have respect for other people’s ideas…not just your own. After all nobody likes a know-it-all.

Don’t brag about yourself – its one thing to celebrate your successes with the team but don’t be a diva. You don’t have to brag to everyone about what a good job you’re doing. Trust me…they already know and they’ll tell you when you’re doing great work. And when they do be humble and say something gracious like ‘Thanks that means a lot to me.’

Do really listen to people – Give them your full attention. Nod, ask questions and summarize to show that you understand. If you don’t get their point ask more questions to clarify before moving on. Remember you’ll always learn more from listening than flapping your gums.

Do be a true team player – Take the time to help out your team mates no matter what the request. Everyone needs help sometime and you know that someday it’s going to be you feeling grateful that your coworkers are lending you a helping hand.