When it comes to creating projects, collaborating in groups is always an option and comes with its own pros and cons. It can help you open up to new ideas and solutions as well as speed up time to work. You’ll be able to plan and manage your schedules better, refine your understanding when it comes to creating your project, challenge assumptions and preconceived notions as well as develop your communication skills. However, if you’re used to working alone, it can be tricky to let go of that control as well as opening yourself up to conflict or unfair task distribution. Clashing schedules depending on the group members’ priorities could also be an issue. I have a few tips to make sure things run smoothly.

Here are my general tips. Please be responsible for your workload and make sure you do your part to the fullest. Be inclusive to every member as everyone can provide valuable input. Avoid personal criticism and always give people the benefit of the doubt first. Be prompt and up to date with your schedules. Don’t enable bad behavior. Lastly, commit to a solid plan and stay focused.

Here’s my advice to group leaders. There is this common experience where group leaders often get issues with their group members’ workload. To be honest, I am honestly more of a follower than a leader! I’m not good with people, especially with social cues. However, I do have my insights. 

Most often, your issues with your groupmates are valid and must be addressed to proper authorities if it gets out of hand. However, please remember that you are not exempt from criticism and be open to suggestions, keeping a clear head. Answer questions fairly and be willing to share what you know.

Here’s my advice for the group followers. Please play your roles effectively and see through your tasks to the fullest. Respect the group leader in most cases too. When it comes to instructions, be vigilant when reading up but also don’t be afraid to ask questions to things that you are not familiar of.

One valuable life lesson I learned, especially in professional spaces like work and school is that sometimes the people who may disrupt teamwork are extremely competent at what they do, both followers and leaders. The ones that are so good at their jobs that they make you question if your issues with them are valid. I promise you they are. Everyone has their weak points, no matter how skilled they seem. Attitude and cooperation are just as valuable in professionalism as competency. Do not let it stop you from calling them out when needed but also cooperate and see to it that your project is completed the most effectively.