Independent workers are oriented towards using their own ideas and reflections. Team players, on the other hand, like to draw on people's thoughts and ideas within an interactive setting. While most individuals have a preference, the fact is that the majority of people have a little of both orientations. One person might, for example, like to share ideas and brainstorm when it comes to decision-making, but would prefer to be alone when conducting a research project. Knowing which way a person leans on the work orientation scale can help optimize his or her potential.
There are a variety of concerns that many people have about teamwork. Some people worry, for instance, that they will not be able to achieve as much if they work in a group, or that communicating in a team will add a level of complexity to a project that is intimidating. They also may worry that certain team members will slack off, leaving them with an unfair workload. These results will provide some insight behind Sample's teamwork orientation by identifying his particular concerns about teamwork.