ho doesn't roll their eyes when they hear the phrases above? They are worn-out, overused expressions that conjure up images of a nervous job applicant in an ill-fitting suit responding to a potential employer's standard "Tell me about yourself" question.

However, they're also qualities vital to the success of any business. Without them, you can accomplish very little in business or in life for that matter. Every sale, presentation and lead generation requires a collaborative effort.

Your professional success directly relates to how valuable you are to the team with whom you work. Therefore, to be successful in business you need to be an asset to your team. Everyone wants to be on a winning team, and everyone wants to be on a team with people who can win. Therefore, in order to be a success, demonstrate your value to your company.

Even if you plan to change jobs, you still want to be an asset to your current co-workers, as your success on that team makes you more attractive to other companies. How do you make yourself invaluable? By becoming a team player.

Put the Team First

As a team member, it's important to understand that what's best for the group comes before what's best for you as an individual. Your focus should be on the group's goal, rather than what's in it for you.

Therefore, don't be afraid to step back and let someone else shine. The most valuable team player is not necessarily the brightest star. More often than not, the person who works for the good of the team, rather than his own self-serving purposes, is the real team player.

Check Your Ego at the Door

When you're part of a team, it's vital to develop a thick skin. Working as a team involves both giving and receiving criticism. Don't be offended by others' suggestions; remember, it's for the good of the team. Also, don't read too much into others' actions. For instance, if you served as project manager or leader on the last project, and your boss asked someone else to lead on the next project, don't jump to the conclusion that you did something wrong or that you're being treated unfairly. Your co-workers are your teammates, not your competition. Ask them for support, and offer them encouragement when they need it.

Be Flexible

The whole idea of working as a group is to share ideas and work collaboratively. This helps to make the most of each person's skills and maximizes the team's overall benefit.

Have you heard the phrase, "Too many cooks in the kitchen"? If there are too many leaders who believe their way is the only right way, the team will move in circles, rather than progress ahead. Valuable team members are open to change, and embrace the give-and-take nature of a team.

Keep the Lines of Communication Open

When you're on a team, or in any relationship, success depends on how well people communicate with each other. A valuable team player tells others what's going on and asks others what's happening. Talk to your fellow colleagues. Be approachable. If there's a potential problem, address it and try to remedy it before it becomes a bigger issue.

Make Connections With Others

"Team" is just another word for relationship. Valuable team members are enthusiastic, and their enthusiasm energizes co-workers. You will prove valuable to your colleagues, and your clients, if you can connect with them to foster trust, commitment and camaraderie. This faith and confidence helps build relationships.

Keep Your Focus

All teams should have a clearly identified mission and goal and communicate it to all members. A clear mission assures that the group concentrates its efforts on the same cause. Keep the team's goal in focus and know what your responsibilities are to help reach that goal.

Remain dedicated, and not only when it's convenient, easy, or what everyone else is doing. A good team player stays committed to the cause, especially when it's not the popular thing to do.

If you're on a winning team, others will perceive you as a winner. Who doesn't want that? Raw talent and education certainly add value, but to be an asset to your company, you also need to be selfless, flexible and communicative.

It's important to spend time educating yourself and fine tuning your sales skills. However, it's just as important to keep your team-playing and compromising skills sharp. As a team member, you'll increase your value if you remain focused on the good of the team and use your skills to help work toward the united goal.