The ability to work in a team is a skill that many young professionals take pride in when applying for jobs. But have you ever considered that this could be a drawback if you lack the ability to work independently?
Many jobs require working individually, while others demand teamwork—or a combination of both. Here are some examples of when teamwork is essential:
- Large and complex projects – When multiple skills and diverse perspectives are needed.
- Creative problem-solving – To generate new and innovative ideas.
- Crisis management – To handle urgent issues efficiently.
- Building a strong company culture – To foster a positive and collaborative work environment.
On the other hand, some tasks are best done independently, such as:
- Deep-focus tasks – Like preparing detailed reports or programming.
- Quick decision-making – When immediate action is required.
- Routine tasks – That don’t require collaboration.
- Personal creativity – Such as graphic design or creative writing.
From a management perspective, many roles require a hybrid approach, combining both teamwork and independent work. As an employee, adaptability and flexibility are key in situations like:
- Planning and execution – Planning as a team, executing individually.
- Research and development – Brainstorming ideas together, conducting research independently.
- Review and analysis – Preparing reports individually and discussing them as a team.
So, when writing your resume, don’t just state that you can work in a team. Highlight your ability to work independently as well. True excellence lies in being adaptable and excelling in both settings!