Queue the avengers theme music...

Where I learned about teamwork...

I gained a lot of experience and understanding on what it means to work as a team early in my work career. I have learned that when a team finds harmony with each other and when we are there for one another it brings a team closer together like family. When we are able lift each other up when one of us is struggling and be there for any fellow team member that is down, we build a stronger foundation as a team. Working to our strengths and understanding that we are all unique in our own way is key. Just like in the battle scene in the first Avengers movie as Captain America lays out the battle plan for each avenger. They ask him how they are going to deal with Loki, and he says, “as a team”. As he gives each avenger an assignment, they are meant to complement their strengths and are able to defeat Loki. That scene really exemplifies what it means to work as a team even though they all have a unique set of skills and powers. ( The video above shows all of Captain America's speeches which are very inspiring but it is at the 1 minute mark what I am refering to where Captain America says, "as a team". )

Probably one of the most interesting things I found that can bring a team together is food. Whether it is bringing donuts, pan dulce (Mexican sweet bread) or even making waffles and pancakes before the shift starts can really make a difference with a team. I remember making pancakes on payday Friday and it was something that I remember everyone looking forward to and the camaraderie it brought. Food seems to have a way of connecting us and has the power to transcend team differences and build a stronger bond.

Leading a team...

I had the opportunity to learn from great managers but also learn more from the not so good ones on how to lead a team. The first thing I learned was to lead by example. If I am not willing to do something, then I should not expect anyone on the team to do it. Another thing is if I am not able to follow then I can never lead. A real leader bows down to authority. I really understood that as a leader that I must be humble and check my ego in at the door. It is making a choice to strengthen the team and having success collectively rather than individually.

Valuing members of the team...

I have embraced the teams that I have been as a family. Just like Vin Diesel said, “we never turn our back on family, even when they do.” Being a Hispanic, we value family like no other. We stick together through thick and thin and always have each other's back. We argue and disagree every now and then, and have our differences but in the end, we know we are family. Bringing this mindset to work has really paid dividends as a team. Showing that we care for one another and willing to help when they are in need goes a long way. Whether that help is at work or outside of work it really helps the team dynamic and build stronger relationships. I truly enjoy helping team members and anyone who is just starting in or is interested in IT. I am always open to share with them what I have learned along with way to help advance their career. This is one of the reasons why I created this site so that I can share information and resources to help any way that I can.