Transcript ↓

Today’s episode is about the thing I’ve learned in Vancouver.

It is about the way of thinking of Teamwork.

Since I came here 1 year ago, I had a lot of opportunities for group work in the class. In that case, I tend to take the role of a team leader because I love thinking about the big picture of the work. I was thinking that good leadership is to find a place where everyone feels happy. I mean, everyone has their own opinions that might be very different and discuss with members many times to build a consensus. Everyone needs to help each other if someone is struggling with something. That was the Japanese ethic in teamwork. That’s why we have the word 連帯責任  Joint liability in English that each pterson has a responsibility for 1 person's fault. In other words, One for all, all for one. That’s why if someone in a team is in a difficult situation, we help them. But I realized this is Japanese style.

I found out that teamwork overseas means different. One day, I asked teammates to gather together in order to discuss because I wanna make sure if everyone agrees the idea and if there is something difficult to accomplish. but the day, no one showed up. I was disappointed as a team leader but on the presentation day, everyone made their each part and presented perfectly.  At that time, I was really glad and realized that Teamwork for them meant not helping each other but each team member has to do his or her part. One for one, turn out to be for all. What I would say is that I don’t have to help other people. just believe and rely fully on them. That was interesting experience for me.

What do you think about teamwork in your culture? I’m glad if you let me know your justice about Teamwork.