C is for Collaboration
Is it silly to describe myself as a collaboration-enthusiast?
Have you ever noticed that when you’re in sync with someone you’re collaborating with, you flow through the interaction effortlessly?
On the flip side, when you’re not collaborating well with someone, it can really impact your whole experience of work. Those negative collaborations have a ripple effect on your entire organizational culture and impact employee satisfaction.
This week, I’m thinking about how I can support my clients to have more successful and fulfilling collaborations.
I find that the most successful collaborations happen when:
Partners trust each other and respect the contributions, skills, and experiences that each contributor brings.
Roles and expectations are clear.
Each collaborator does what they said they would do.
Everyone acknowledges that the outcomes of the collaboration will be be greater than the sum of each person’s individual contribution.
If there’s a breakdown in collaboration, it’s usually in one of these areas.
As a collaborative consultant, I can provide support for…
…designing and facilitating team-based processes that are inclusive, engaging, and produce results.
…setting up teams for success- clarifying purpose, roles, norms, and expectations.
…deepening skills that are key for successful collaboration through training and 1-1 support.
As a coach, I can support individuals to…
…notice how they’re showing up in relationships and collaborations.
…communicate effectively to their teams and collaborators.
…create environments where trust can occur.
I love collaborating because I really benefit from others’ contributions to me and see how it strengthens my work, and I love to be a contribution to others. Perhaps that’s why I became a coach?
What are your collaboration ingredients for success? Are you seeing anywhere in your life you could strengthen your collaboration skills? Do you have any current collaborations that are really working well? I’d love to hear from you.
Michaela