How To Succeed in Group Projects
If you are pursuing a degree in communications or any field, you have likely worked on a group project. Let's be honest, not all teams are the quintessential "dream team," but regardless, you have to work together to be successful, and you have to get it done efficiently. So whether you are in the workplace, a college group project, or a student-run firm client team, here are top tips to help you be a successful team member in group projects.
Start Early:
We’ve all been there where the procrastination sets in, the workload piles up, and you are scrambling the last week before a project is due. Remember, it is not just you on the project anymore. Everyone works at different paces and has different schedules. By not procrastinating, you can ensure more time to get your project done and not have to sweat the small stuff later. Set a schedule early on in the semester or at the beginning of the project, so all members can find times to meet, work, and get the deadline's tasks accomplished.
Start Communicating:
One of the most common problems faced when working in group projects is nobody talks; everyone starts in different directions, and the team effort gets lost. Effective communication is vital when working on group projects. Start with creating an initial zoom or in-person group meeting time to discuss preferred group meeting times, work styles, and best contact methods. Not all members will be extroverted; create an open communication environment where all members feel comfortable reaching out, asking questions, and addressing concerns. In our firm, we use Slack and Basecamp to communicate in a professional setting. Group chats can get messy, and information may be lost; we use these tools to share information, set to-dos, and communicate efficiently and professionally.
Start Delegating:
Don't be afraid to step up and be the leader of the group. Someone has to do it. In almost all my group projects, we set a few minutes to delegate task leaders such as team lead, project editor, graphic designer, and coordinators of specific project areas. Being the team leader does not mean you have to do it all or be the boss; you will ensure that the team progresses. If work needs to get done, delegate, assign to-dos, and move forward. Most group members are looking for tasks to complete but don't know where to start —lead the way.
Starting Organizing:
Students and professionals, whether they admit it or not, do better with organizations and set schedules. Everyone has lives outside their group project, so organization is needed to better coordinate responsibilities and timing during the project. Google Drive is an excellent tool for staying organized where all members can find the information. Set up a shared Google Drive for the specific project; this can be the location where all information is shared and easily accessible for members. With everything being virtual taking the extra step to learn to stay organized digitally. will lead to less confusion and easier collaboration in your team.
You will be working in groups for the majority of your career. The key to quality group work is all about setting your team up for success from the beginning. The group project's stress can be managed by effectively communicating, delegating, and organizing your group. It is all about team effort, not an individual success, so remember to look at how your team efficiency will lead to your project and client success.
About Caitlyn:
Caitlyn Wolter is a senior studying Advertising and Public Relations, with a minor in Digital Studies. This is her second year involved in PRSSA and her first year serving on GrandPR E-Board as the Media Director. Caitlyn plans to continue her career in PR, by combining her passion for event planning, and digital marketing to work on an integrated communication team in the Wedding Industry. In her free time, she likes to watch YouTube, create videos, and explore West Michigan.
LinkedIN: Caitlyn Wolter
Twitter: @CaitlynWolter