The Power of Being Part of The Crew: Why Being Part of The Crew is Better Than Simply Being on a Team
For the last five years I have worked with a group of leaders who have turned out to be some of my favorite people in business and life. I spent the last weekend on the lake with them and it got me thinking… in our professional and personal lives, we’re often asked to be part of a team, but is there a stronger word than team? Whether it’s at work, in sports, or within social circles, the concept of teamwork is ingrained in us. But what if I told you there’s something even more powerful than simply being on a team? Enter the idea of the crew. While a team might seem synonymous with a crew, there are key differences that set them apart—and it’s those differences that make being part of the crew a truly transformative experience.
The Team Mentality
When we think of a team, we often imagine a group of people working together towards a common goal. Teams are usually assembled with specific roles in mind, where each person brings their own expertise to the table. It’s a structured approach, with clear hierarchies and defined responsibilities. In a team, we might do our part, execute our tasks, and then move on to the next project.
However, in a traditional team setting, the connection between members can sometimes be superficial. We might collaborate, but do we truly connect? The focus is often on the tasks at hand rather than the relationships between us. This can lead to a dynamic where we’re working alongside each other rather than truly with each other.
What Makes The Crew Different?
The crew, on the other hand, is more than a group of people working together—it’s the tight-knit unit where every member is deeply connected to the others and everyone’s role matters, no matter how big or small their role is. In the crew, we don’t simply fulfill roles; we support each other, look out for one another, and share a common purpose that goes beyond individual tasks. The bonds in the crew are stronger because they’re built on mutual trust, respect, and a shared sense of responsibility.
When we’re part of the crew, we feel a sense of belonging that’s often missing in a traditional team. We’re not some cogs in a machine; we’re integral parts of the collective whole. This creates a sense of loyalty and commitment that drives us to go the extra mile—not solely for the project, rather for each other.
Why Being Part of The Crew is Better
- Deeper Connections: On the crew, relationships are prioritized. We know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and we’re invested in each other’s success. This deeper connection fosters better communication, more effective collaboration, and the stronger sense of camaraderie.
- Shared Accountability: In a team, accountability can sometimes feel isolated. We’re responsible for our own tasks, but what happens when someone falls short? On the crew, accountability is shared. We’re all in it together, so when one of us struggles, the rest step in to help. This collective responsibility leads to higher standards and better outcomes.
- Unified Purpose: A team might have a common goal, but the crew has one unified purpose. We’re not simply working towards a goal; we’re driven by the shared mission that aligns with our values and aspirations. This unifying force creates powerful motivation that keeps us focused and resilient, even in the face of challenges.
- Resilience and Support: Life isn’t always smooth sailing, and the same goes for our professional and personal journeys. When we’re part of our crew, we know we’ve got the support system that will stand by us through thick and thin. This resilience comes from knowing we’re not alone—we have our crew that’s got our back.
- Long-Term Success: Teams often disband after a project is completed, but crews sticks together. The bonds we form in the crew are lasting, creating the network of support that we can rely on for years to come. This long-term connection contributes to sustained success and personal growth.
How to Build Our Crew
Building our crew doesn’t happen overnight—it takes time, effort, and the commitment to fostering genuine connections. Here are a few steps we can take to cultivate our own crew:
- Prioritize Relationships: Focus on getting to know each other beyond the surface level. Invest time in understanding each other’s motivations, goals, and challenges.
- Encourage Open Communication: Create the environment where everyone feels safe to share their thoughts and ideas. Encourage transparency and honesty in all interactions.
- Support Each Other: Be there for each other, both professionally and personally. Celebrate attempts and successes together and offer a helping hand when someone is struggling.
- Align on Values: Ensure that everyone in the crew shares common values and is committed to the same purpose. This alignment is key to maintaining unity and motivation.
- Foster a Sense of Belonging: Make sure everyone feels like an integral part of the crew. Recognize each person’s contributions and create opportunities for everyone to shine.
Being part of a team has its advantages, but there’s something truly special about being part of the crew. It’s about more than simply working together—it’s about building deep connections, sharing accountability, and uniting around one common purpose. When we’re part of the crew, we’re about more than achieving goals; we’re growing together, supporting each other, and creating lasting bonds that enrich our lives.
So, the next time we’re asked to join a team, let’s take it one step further. Let’s build our crew. Because when we do, we’re stronger—we’re unstoppable.