Your ability to work with others in other disciplines to help solve your problem is a key element to your personal and business success. Most companies will want to assist your development and train you to lead and manage. These are very different, although often mistaken for the same. A manager organizes and maintains a process or a group of people. A leader can be someone at any level who sets direction by envisioning the future endpoint and makes it happen.
Companies have a vested interest in developing their employees' abilities to gain empowerment.
The diversity of personalities offers a wealth of human resources and may present difficulties for project teams. A balance must be set to overcome the scientific, management, and business issues to drive your career, project, product, and the company. External competition exists at the company level and unfortunately, internal competition exists as projects compete for funds and employees compete for career advancement. The playing field is rarely level. The scientist interacts with others to set project direction, manage laboratory associates, and direct extramural research contracts and grants.