Working Effectively In A Diverse Team
At some level we all understand that if we are able to pull together the collective experience, knowledge and wisdom of teams we will achieve a much better outcome. 
On the other hand what we understand and what we actually put into action is often very different.
Within any professional field you have groups of really smart people. Sometimes when you put people from different people from different professions together they deliver some brilliant results.
So what can you do to work more effectively in a diverse team?
Know Your Unique Contribution
Whatever your profession, there are going to be areas where you are the expert or have the greatest level of knowledge or experience. This is your unique contribution to the diverse team. Accept this and don’t wish you were the expert in everything.
Learn To Listen
So much is written about communication skills. A lot of the time it focuses on getting your message across. Of course this matters. On the other hand being able to really listen will set you apart from the majority of people on a team.
Ask Questions
There may be things spoken about that you quite simply don’t understand at all or are struggling to fully understand. There are two responses. You can either let your ego stop you from gaining a better understanding or just ask some questions,
Build On Others Ideas
When you listen and ask questions you really put yourself in a position to help others build on their ideas. More often than not people will reciprocate and help you build on your ideas.
Embrace The Diversity
The greater the breadth of diversity on a team in terms of thinking and experiences, the more likely you are to deliver the best possible outcome.
In truth teams can present challenges. On the other hand they also present great opportunities too.
About the Author Duncan Brodie
Since 2006 I’ve worked with in excess of 8,000 accountants and professionals in workshops, seminars and one to one helping them land their next jobs and become better leaders, presenters and business partners. Before that I spent 25 years in accountancy climbing the career ladder from Payments Clerk to FD. I’m a CIMA Fellow, Certified Professional Coach and Team Coach Facilitator.