"Show you can collaborate, influence and compromise" TOTALjobs

According to CBI (The UK's leading business lobbying organisation), teamwork is one of the most sought-after skills that employers look for. That makes it a high priority!

This is one of the greatest ways in which Firm Foundations can help anyone. Teamwork. When you join the Firm Foundations programme you immediately become part of a large, vibrant team and you live with many of them for a year. You gain an insight in to how people work - and not just when they have to be 'professional', but also how to lead and influence people behind the scenes.

You may not be a natural team player. That's OK. You can - like all else - learn to develop your teamwork skills. Here's a few recommendations.

1. Don't Always Talk
Let others lead sometimes, take a step back. If you want to go into leadership and management this will be a vital step in encouraging your team to 'step up to the plate'.

2. Put Yourself Forward
This may seem contradictory to the first point, but it's not. There are times to speak and to be silent. But when opportunity presents itself to take your place in the team, be pro-active, volunteer. Be keen. Be the 'teachers pet'. Remember, you're not in school anymore!

3. Respect Others
In a team you won't always get on. You will disagree. Bob will annoy you. Alex with be annoyed by you. You'll make Sam cry. But Lyla will reduce you to tears too. This is just part of being a team. But try and keep you cool. Don't always correct people, don't always leave people on their own. Be supportive, be a team player!

If you're interested in developing your team work skills, why not consider our gap year training programme, Firm Foundations? Go to www.ff-training.org.uk for more information.