Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. 40 CNC Manufacturing Technology A big advantage of a team is its ability to develop plans and com- plete work faster than individuals working alone. In contrast, a team usually takes longer to reach a decision than an individual worker does. Team members need some time before they become comfortable with one another and learn to function as a unit. You will be more desirable as an employee if you know how to be a team player. Creative ideas often develop from building on another person’s idea. Honesty and openness are essential. Also, trying to understand the ideas of others before trying to get others to understand your ideas is an effective skill to develop. Leadership All careers require leadership skills. Leadership is the ability to guide and motivate others to complete tasks or achieve goals. It involves commu- nicating well with others, accepting responsibility, and making decisions with confidence. Those employees with leadership skills are most likely to be promoted to higher levels. Leaders often seem to carry the most responsibility of a group. Other group members look to them for answers and direction. The most impor- tant role of leaders is to keep the team advancing toward its goal. Leaders do this by inspiring their groups and providing the motivation to keep everyone working together. Good leaders encourage teamwork because a team that is working together well is more likely to reach its goals. They listen to the opinions of others and make sure all team members are included in projects. Leaders also want to set a good example by doing a fair share of the work. In these ways, leaders cultivate a sense of harmony in the group. Negotiation Often there are times when employees and employers must negotiate on a task or work-related issue. Negotiation is the process of agree- ing on an issue that requires all parties to give and take. The goal is a “win-win” solution in which all parties get some or all of what they are seeking. Negotiation begins with trying to understand the other party’s or par- ties’ interests. Possible solutions that meet their mutual concerns can be developed. Often the best solution becomes clear when all parties have ample time to explain what they are trying to accomplish. 2.5.10 Staying Safety Conscious Safety on the job is everyone’s responsibility. Many workplace accidents occur because of careless behavior. Poor attitudes can often cause unsafe behavior, too. Common causes of accidents include the following: ■ Taking risks ■ Showing off ■ Forgetting safety details ■ Disobeying company rules ■ Daydreaming ■ Losing your temper ■ Falling asleep.