Let’s face it, we can’t be experts in every field, so we can only benefit from surrounding ourselves with colleagues who have diverse expertise, adding to the overall knowledge bank of the team. That being said, it can also sometimes feel intimidating, working alongside those we might view as ‘smarter’ than us. In this issue of The Pulse, we discuss why it’s important to shift that mind set in order to leverage the group’s knowledge as a whole.

A successful and efficient team is typically made up of those whose knowledge covers a diverse range of topics. Teams are constantly evolving- most commonly due to a gap in skills as we face the ever-changing business landscape. In fact, 66% of employers say that hiring someone new is the main way they address a skill gap on their team. Now more than ever, there is a constant need for experts in new areas and adapting to this is not always easy.

Managers are responsible for ensuring their team’s success by creating an environment to thrive as a group. That can often mean hiring those who might have an advanced understanding of certain areas, have more up-to-date credentials, or have a different educational background. From the perspective of management, this can sometimes feel like an uncomfortable task. It is normal to feel some sense of insecurity when managing someone with a different level of expertise than you might have. It is important to keep in mind that the stronger a team you can build as a manager, the higher the potential for the team to achieve great things.

As a colleague in this situation, it can be difficult to acclimatize to a new team member. Often, we are set in our ways and our routines. We have worked together on many projects and have overcome different hurdles together. When a new member is added to the mix, it can feel like somewhat of an intrusion. Remember to focus on the value being added to the group as a whole. How will this lighten our load or strengthen our team? What new skills are they bringing that will elevate us to new heights? How will this positively affect our network of people and skills?

Whether a manager or a colleague, here are some helpful tips from a growth and development keynote speaker, Rob Collier, who passionately teaches about entrepreneurship, community and human performance in order to become the best you:

1. Leverage your Collective Strengths: Recognizing that a diversity in strengths and talents can lead to more successful end results through effective problem-solving and innovations.
2. Embrace Continuous Learning: Every interaction you have inside and outside of the workplace is an opportunity to learn. You will never know it all, so consider it a free education when you have a chance to learn and grow through observing those around you.
3. Foster a Growth Mindset: Allow yourself to see that intelligence and ability are qualities that can be developed, so believe in your potential to grow.
4. Build a Strong Network: Form connections with colleagues who can help you to create a valuable network of mentorship. These connections can open doors to new opportunities for you to learn and develop.
5. Enhancement of Team Performance: Know that high-performing teams are composed of those with varied levels of expertise. Focus more on what you can bring to the team to uphold and elevate the performance level that is desired by all.

In conclusion, regardless of what one individual might bring to the team, it is the collective capabilities of the group that create success in the end. Rather than focusing on what you may not have to contribute, dive into what strengths you have that can help your team to succeed and achieve results. Having confidence in your own abilities while also keeping an open mind to learning from those around you will only make you and your team stronger.