Skip to content
Three drawn happy penguins with colorful bow ties dance and hold each other by the shoulders.

Why a healthy team spirit is more than just a motto…

Arne Gülzau

Link kopieren

Link kopiert

The end of the year is just around the corner, and we are not only hopefully throwing a few snowballs in our minds and taking a look at projects and successes, but also at what really defines us: our values.
One of these, “Live the Spirit“, could easily be dismissed as a buzzword. But especially in the highly dynamic IT world, where applications and technologies change faster than the mood of a pubescent teenager, the true essence of this guiding principle becomes apparent. What does it really mean to live the “spirit” and why is it crucial for our collaboration – and our personal well-being?

Trust and plain language instead of empty phrases

The IT industry is often about precision and speed. But projects rarely fail because of technology – communication is usually the sticking point. In this context, “Live the Spirit” means speaking plainly. No empty phrases, no rumors. Those who speak openly and take responsibility create trust. And trust is ultimately the basis for real cooperation. It sounds simple in theory, but in practice it becomes a challenge when the pressure increases. But it is precisely at these moments that team spirit is revealed: can we accept criticism, share knowledge and find solutions together?

Together instead of alone: sharing knowledge as a culture

“Knowledge is power – knowing nothing is powerless.” At least that used to be a popular saying among schoolchildren when I was much younger. Today, at virtual7, you could say “knowledge is power – when it’s shared”. In a company that thrives on digitalization, sharing knowledge is not just a nice gesture, but a survival strategy. No employee can keep an eye on all facets of IT. Complexity is growing, and the only way to maintain an overview is through networking. Theoretically, this can be attributed to the principle of “swarm intelligence”: The group is smarter than the individual. But this only works if we communicate openly and do not misuse expertise as an instrument of power. Just like we regularly do in our addValue Talks… (you know, that half hour in which our colleagues can present a topic without much preparation or effort. The platform for sharing knowledge within virtual7).

Error culture

Failure is inevitable in professional and private life. Systems crash, people make mistakes, bugs appear – often at the worst possible moment. But instead of panicking or looking for someone to blame, the strength of a team lies in learning from mistakes. Mistakes are not seen as setbacks, but as learning opportunities. In an atmosphere that is open and trusting, teams can take risks without fear of negative consequences. This creates space for innovation and development – both on an individual level and throughout the company.

Healthy teams – healthy results

“Live the Spirit” not only means working together efficiently, but also taking care of each other. Physical and mental health are not luxury goods, but essential for sustainable success. Stress and overwork not only lead to mistakes, but also to dissatisfaction. Companies that encourage their employees to take breaks, look after their health and ask for support create an atmosphere in which team spirit thrives. This may sound obvious in theory, but is often overlooked in practice. A team that stays healthy together – be it through sporting activities, mental check-ins or simply supporting each other – is more resilient and productive. Why not take part in our “Mindful Breakout“, which frees body (parts) and soul (Here’s another explanation for the ignorant outside world: it’s a fifteen-minute workout for all sports enthusiasts, whether beginners or fitness junkies, to clear their heads).

Spirit as a strategic advantage

In a world that is constantly changing, adaptability is the key to success. “Live the Spirit” is more than a social value – it’s a survival strategy. Companies that encourage open communication, see mistakes as learning opportunities and pay attention to the health of their employees are not only pleasant places to work. They are also more innovative and competitive. The theory of “organizational resilience” states that organizations that learn from experience and constantly adapt their processes are more successful in the long term. Well, that’s us – ONEvirtual7. Törööö.

Outlook: Into the new year with team spirit

As we close out the year, it’s worth asking: How did we “Live the Spirit” this year? Where can we improve? Next year will bring new challenges – but with the right spirit, we will overcome them. Together. Open. Responsibly.
After all, that’s what makes us strong: a team – ONEvirtual7 – that not only works, but lives. Marcus summed it up nicely in an episode of our podcast: “We are good when we all come together and spend time together” (Episode 46 – Shape Ahead).

With this in mind: Happy holidays and “Live the Spirit” – also in 2025!

Interessant?

Noch mehr aus unserem Blog