The Difference Between “Employees” and Real “Team Members”
I consulted with an organization recently who had a long-time employee that exemplified the difference between an “employee” and a real “team member.” In a nutshell, here’s some of the biggest differences that leaders should be noticing:
1) A team member looks for work to do. An employee does the work assigned.
2) A team member shares ideas. An employee shares complaints.
3) A team member deserves a raise. An employee demands a raise.
4) A team member leaves when he’s finished. An employee leaves at 5 o’clock.
5) A team member shares credit. An employee takes credit.
6) A team member thinks like an owner. An employee thinks like an employee.
7) A team member has a passion. An employee has a job.
8) A team member sees from the customer’s perspective. An employee sees from his perspective.
9) A team member thinks about the organization. An employee thinks about himself.
Any others I left out?
I love this. I would just add one word. “An employee ALWAYS leaves at 5pm.” I do believe in work life balance and to a team member, there will always be more work to do. Knowing when to switch off, go home, and recharge is an important part of being a productive team member.
That’s true Adam. I’ve seen people kill themselves to finish the important work they didn’t get done while destroying their family lives.
How about, “A team member steps up. an employee steps out.”
Just heard your interview on Think International. I love the concept that “TV is America’s last great campfire.” Great visual!
I love seeing posts like this. It gives us all a great idea of what to look for in adding people to our teams.
I’d add – A team member takes personal accountability. An employee looks to place blame.
This is great Phil! Thanks for posting!
A team member takes ownership of assignments. An employee “rents” tasks, then is late paying what’s due. A team player accepts responsibility for failure of an assignment-even he did his part. An employee makes excuses for himself, while blaming others/controllable circumstances.
Great post, Phil.
A team member buys lunch. An employee pillages through the break room fridge. ; )
A team member is there for the goals of the company or it’s President…an employee is there for his/her OWN agenda…which may be hidden!
This is bs