Final answer:
The main difference between a Team Leader and Team Member includes their focus on team results over individual success, their communicative role with management, and their responsibility to foster trust and professionalism in the team. While both roles require professional conduct, initiative, and accountability, leaders additionally engage in setting the vision and guiding team alignment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Leadership vs. Team Membership
The main difference between being a Team Leader and a Team Member often revolves around the scope of responsibilities and the focus of efforts. A Team Leader is typically responsible for the overall direction and results of the team, looking to align team efforts with the organization's mission and goals, and providing both guidance and feedback to team members. They think about team results rather than individual success, communicate progress to management, and work to develop a trusting professional environment. Whereas, a Team Member is often more focused on executing specific tasks, working collaboratively, and contributing to team goals with an emphasis on individual responsibilities.
Professional conduct, flexibility, and responsiveness to feedback are key behaviors that both leaders and members should exhibit to maintain a positive work environment and achieve objectives. Taking initiative and being resourceful are also valued traits in both roles. Leaders, in particular, need to build and maintain a collaborative relationship with both their team members and management. They must remain open and transparent, negotiate effectively, and manage any arising conflicts while maintaining a positive team dynamic.
For a Team Leader, establishing a unanimously understood vision and exercising effective communication skills are vital to steering the team successfully. As for a Team Member, it is important to stay accountable, own up to mistakes, and actively participate in the team's endeavors, embracing new projects and minimizing the need for supervision.