Teams are used to make products or deliver services, to solve problems, and to manage the work environment. Employees at all levels of an organization must be able to work with others to accomplish tasks and solve problems. Teamwork involves attention to both the goals of the group and to the social processes used to accomplish those goals. To work in and lead groups one needs to be skilled in both the task and the process of teamwork. The qualities of an effective team member include taking responsibility for individual assignments and for deciding how the team should accomplish its goal.
Communication is also a critical factor in successful teamwork.
Interpersonal skills are necessary to work on teams, teach others, serve others, lead, negotiate, and work well with people from culturally diverse backgrounds. To lead a group one must communicate ideas to justify a position, persuade and convince others and responsibly challenge existing procedures and policies. A group leader is able to negotiate by working toward agreements involving an exchange of resources and resolve divergent interests.