Page 16 - February 2021 Voices

FROM THE DESK

“T” Is For Teamwork

Lorri Andersen, DTM - Club Growth Director

They say there is no “I” in Team but there is a “T”. trusting, atmosphere in order to accomplish
The letter T stands for together. Work teams are their objectives”. This is the reason I love being in

“interdependent collections of individuals who Toastmasters. I see people working to learn these
share responsibility for specific outcomes for skills in an atmosphere where they can trust each
their organizations.”[1] other, learn, and grow. In addition, a Team needs
In my own research and experience in high- to make changes when they see it is needed.

performing teams, this is sometimes easier to put Recently, I had the opportunity to hear
down on paper than to organize and experience International President, Richard Peck, on a video
in action. recording. He said to achieve our goals, we need
Better said through another author, “High- to ask for help. If we don’t achieve our goals, at

performing teams are those with members whose least we tried. But if we don’t ask for help, then
skills, attitudes, and competencies enable them that’s on us. In addition, we need to adapt our
to achieve team goals. These team members set leadership style to the needs of the District. I see
goals, make decisions, communicate, manage our District as a High Performing Team. We work

conflict, and solve problems in a supportive, together, have a positive attitude, have the desire
trusting atmosphere in order to accomplish their to learn new skills, and we work in a supportive
objectives. Moreover, they are aware of their own and positive learning environment.

strengths and weaknesses and have the ability to In studying data analysis, it is said “one can
make changes when they need to improve their only work on a specific skill without losing
performance.” [2] motivation if she enjoys the process of learning
This sounds like Toastmasters! Participating at and practicing. . . f you generally enjoy the process,
the club level and stepping into a leadership role that will definitely help a lot to keep you in the

prepares you for your next step whether it be in flow.”[3]. I love working in information technology
Toastmasters, another organization, or company. and learning new skills so there is truth in this
Almost every company wants their employees reference. I enjoy the process of learning and
to learn how to work in a high performing team perfecting technical skills.

environment. This is becoming even more With Toastmasters, we can enjoy the journey
necessary in the virtual world in which we belong. of working with and serving others. It’s the
With the right skills (learned), a positive process that we enjoy and that continues to give
attitude (necessary), and competency (the ability us motivation to keep us moving to the next step,

to solve problems), an individual can apply speech, and goal. Let’s continue to be on a High
themselves and be a good fit for the Team. A high Performing Team together!
performing Team works best in a “supportive, Click here to access footnotes

16 ONE COMMUNITY