"Two heads are better than one"
What team work means in a post-pandemic world
Now more than ever, and in more contexts than ever, it's clear to see that we're stronger together. Whether you're an active supporter of a particular movement like Black Lives Matter. Or you're simply a budding entrepreneur with a new business idea. Despite the social distancing, self isolation and perspex screens, the pandemic has brought many people across the globe closer together.
Wikipedia's definition of teamwork is; "the collaborative effort of a group to achieve a common goal or to complete a task in the most effective and efficient way."
The pandemic has pushed us to find new ways to work together when we can't actually be together. To reach a common goal together, albeit remotely.
So, why is teamwork important?
1. Teamwork makes the dream work
It's true. Some battles can't be fought alone. If you have a dream or a vision, you can rally some allies together who believe in your vision and work together. The chances are, each member of the team will have different strengths and a different perspective too. Pull together and you're far more likely to succeed. After all, the Avengers would never have defeated Thanos if they hadn't all shared the same vision.
2. "We are stronger together than we are alone" -Walter Payton
This doesn't only apply to physical strength. It's also about our emotional health and our resilience. Being part of a team with the same values and goals is a huge contributor to underpinning your own beliefs. It creates a sense of belonging and feeling valued.
3. “Two heads are better than one, not because either is infallible, but because they are unlikely to go wrong in the same direction.” -C. S. Lewis
If you're anything like me, "Two heads are better than one" will instantly make you think of cult 80's classic movie "Bill & Ted" (Be excellent to each other..) But it was actually C. S. Lewis that coined this phrase first, not 80's rock band "Power Tool". This quote really speaks for itself. After all, we're only human.
4. Good communication is key
Whether you're working as a team or you're collaborating, there will always be delegation. And delegation can only be effective if everyone communicates.
But, what's the difference between teamwork and collaboration?
Teams will usually have a leader (or a few if it's a big team), who will delegate tasks to the rest of the team. Collaborators usually have equal responsibility in achieving the final end product together. Whether you're in a team or collaborating, a mutual respect and good communication are paramount.
5. Teamwork can be a verb
If you look up the dictionary definition of teamwork, it's listed as a noun. But "work" and "collaborate" are both verbs, they're actions we take. So, is teamwork a verb? In my view, teamwork is something we DO together. And when we do, amazing things can happen.
Teamwork vs collaboration
In my 18 months of being a small business owner, I've seen a growing trend among my peers of collaborating. By joining their talents, they are sharing their credibility with each other and helping each other's businesses to grow.
I was thrilled to be approached by Staged Spaces last year who wanted to collaborate with me. By bringing me into their fold, they offer a brilliant "Staging to Sell" package to their customers. They set the scene (very beautifully) and I capture it in its best light. We're currently preparing for our 4th project together, but here's a few shots from our latest shoot in Derby;
I've also been very lucky to work with award winning interior designer, Andrea Yorston of Interior Squirrel. An interview from The Point.1888 reveals that Andrea was previously a Senior Buyer for Next and Head of Licensing for Cath Kidston. Andrea had seen my interior photography and was keen for me to capture her projects. Seeing the transformation she's made to her clients' homes has been amazing. I recently finished capturing one of these whole house transformations, check out Andrea's "before" shots alongside my "after" photos;
If you've got an idea for a collaboration, get in touch with me as I'd love to hear your ideas. Email me on contact@miniaperture.co.uk or click here for more contact info.
Stay safe and, party on dudes!
~Laura