Everyday Workplace Policies

2. Working Together

2.1 Clarify who does what in the team, to avoid misunderstandings.

• Create a fair division of labour for chores. For example, making cups of tea (for colleagues and visitors) can become a bone of contention if it is left to chance. It is often minor issues like this that most undermine teamwork.

2.2 Even if you have a receptionist, make it plain that everyone is expected to pick up the phone after a certain number of rings.

• Include telephone training as part of the induction process (see 1.2). Train all employees how to handle enquiries, take and pass on messages and transfer calls.