Team is defined by Merriam-Webster as “a number of persons associated together in work or activity.” Our society often only acknowledges teams that are competing athletically; however, in the business world, we work together as a team every day to accomplish one goal. At Kreischer Miller, that goal could be preparing a tax return, issuing financial statements, or completing test work. No matter what the goal is on any given day, the team dynamic and interaction amongst our team members are crucial to the completion of that goal.
In our firm, teams are assembled to include members with varying skill sets and personalities. The dynamic of each team is built on the ability of its members to work together toward the common goal. Understanding the unique personalities and learning styles of each member allows the team to grow and develop, both individually and collectively. Over time, this understanding also results in increased productivity, as team members gain a better understanding of the tasks they’ve been assigned and of their role within the team.
A team is also only as strong as its weakest member. Therefore, when one member is struggling, it is the responsibility of the entire team to step up and address the situation before the issue escalates.
It is also the responsibility of each member to work on the team’s continued growth and strength. Everyone needs to be on the same page, willing to adapt to the ever-changing dynamic. At times the pressure of a deadline will increase stress and change the dynamic. Members might be asked to complete tasks that are atypical for their position, but for the betterment of the team, it’s important that they step up to the plate and give it their all.
Stepping up to the plate in the office is only one way our team members work to accomplish one goal. During the late spring and summer, Kreischer Miller sponsors a company slow pitch softball team, playing in a league against other local businesses. Currently, our team is a four-time defending champion. We take this honor seriously, as each year we try hard to extend our winning record. As a team we celebrate these victories by gathering for happy hours. These happy hours are not limited to team wins, though; gatherings like these are pretty common across the firm.
And in that same spirit, Kreischer Miller acknowledges all moments worth celebrating. For example, our new hires are greeted with a welcome breakfast reception on their first day. This allows them to meet the rest of the team in a fun and laid-back setting as everyone introduces themselves over a light breakfast. Our new hire classes (starting in October and January) are also immersed quickly into the Kreischer Miller team dynamic by participating in a day-long scavenger hunt. But celebrations are not only for new teammates; we hold a birthday party on the first Thursday of each month where we recognize all the team members who have a birthday that month.
These are only a few of the ways that we bond as a team and recognize our team members on an individual basis. Because we know that at the end of each day, the message is the same: it’s all about WE.
Want to read more about how we work together as a team? Check out the write-up and slideshow from our most recent Kreischer Miller Cares Day of Service.
Mary Pat Conville is a senior accountant in Kreischer Miller’s Audit & Accounting group. She is also a member of the firm’s Employee Benefit Plan and Real Estate industry groups. Mary Pat joined Kreischer Miller in 2012 upon graduation from LaSalle University. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, being outdoors, and playing sports.
