Effective Relationships with Teams
Building a Strong Team for a Life of Possibilities
Nick Smith advocating at the Capitol in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, for the General Assembly to pass the Governor’s budget.
Hi, my name is Nick Smith, and I’ve been a direct support professional (DSP) for over 26 years. Eighteen of those years have been spent at SPIN, a nonprofit organization providing services in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties. Our mission is to provide the highest quality people-first services and supports for children and adults with intellectual, developmental, and autism spectrum disabilities so that each may achieve and enjoy a life of possibilities. I believe an important part of a life of possibilities includes great DSPs working together as a great team!
Every day is different. Our success depends on how well the team works together. Some days are easier than others, but one thing is always true: Teamwork is key!
I know how important teamwork is for the success of the people we support. But creating a strong team isn’t always easy—it takes good communication, hard work, and integrity from all of us. Every day is different. Our success depends on how well the team works together. Some days are easier than others, but one thing is always true: Teamwork is key!
Communication is one of the most important parts of our job. To prepare for each day, we use tools like group texts, emails, a communication log, a digital house calendar, and even Amazon Alexa to stay connected. These tools help us stay updated and make sure we’re all on the same page. I also make sure I know who will be working with me so we can share important information at the start of our day and make a plan together. I also keep in touch with my manager every morning to discuss any updates, appointments, and specific goals for the day. This helps me prepare for a great day!
As a DSP, I rely on my coworkers and the whole support team, especially when things get tough. When we’re helping someone with complex support needs, it’s important to work together and closely follow the support plan. Everyone needs to be consistent, including DSPs, managers, families, behavior specialists, and other team members. Our job is to help people live their best lives, meaning we all need to bring our best selves to work. We must also remember how important it is to be fully present with those we support and aligned as we support people to develop goals that center around their unique passions and interests.
At SPIN, we have training that helps us learn, communicate, and develop as a team. I think it’s important that all team members get this training so we all have the same information and can learn and grow together. This training helps us stay focused and gives our team the tools we need to succeed.
A big part of success in direct support is creating a team mentality. I try to lead by example, showing care and respect for my colleagues. Building strong relationships with my coworkers helps create a positive work environment where everyone feels valued. It’s important for me to show that I want my coworkers and team to succeed, and I strive to be a supportive teammate for them as well.
Trust is another essential part of a successful team. Trust grows when we work together, respect each other, and follow all organizational policies and procedures. As a DSP, I try to be dependable and act with integrity so my coworkers know they can rely on me. Trust is also important between DSPs and managers. I trust my manager to keep us informed and make sure we have the resources needed to succeed.
Those we support deserve to have a united, positive team around them. Negative energy or team disagreements can affect everyone and the quality of support we provide. Our main goal is to create an environment where the individuals we support feel safe, valued, and empowered. We want to help them achieve their goals and make their day as meaningful as possible. We must remember that we are working in their home and understand how our actions affect it.
We also must remember that it’s important to build trusting relationships with families. Families are essential parts of the team and they trust us to support their loved ones. Keeping open communication, demonstrating care and commitment for those we support, and listening to families help strengthen our team and improve the support we provide.
I try to do my part to support a positive team! When we communicate well, work together, and focus on providing high-quality care, we make sure the possibilities for success are endless. Together, we can accomplish anything!
Learn more about Nick’s work in supporting a life of possibilities:
Smith, N. (2023). Supporting self-determination in people’s life of possibilities. Frontline Initiative, 19(2). https://publications.ici.umn.edu/frontline-initiative/19-2/nicks-story
Smith, N., Tschetter, C., & Kramme, J. (2024). Seeing the possibilities. A Closer Look [podcast]. Institute on Community Integration. https://acloserlook.captivate.fm/episode/episode-7-nick-smith-interview-part-1
Smith, N., Tschetter, C., & Kramme, J. (2024). DSPs advocating for themselves and voting. A Closer Look [podcast]. Institute on Community Integration. https://acloserlook.captivate.fm/episode/episode-8-nick-smith-interview-part-2