Collaboration

Definition

The ability to cooperate with others and work effectively in a team environment

What is it?

Collaboration is the process of working with others to accomplish organizational tasks. In a team environment, everyone contributes to the shared goals of the group, and it is imperative that the group can interact positively and effectively. Each individual plays an important role that is intricately tied to the other members of the team.

Why is it important?

In today’s complex workplace, everyone must do their part in order for the team or department to succeed. If one person fails to prioritize team goals, the output of the whole team can be compromised. Because so much time is spent in a team environment, everyone needs to learn how to cooperate with others not only for their own careers but also for the sake of the team’s performance.

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Suggestions for Improvement

Volunteer Often

When your work group is discussing new tasks or duties, be the first to volunteer for the job. Don’t fall prey to the temptation of not working hard because you think that other members of your team aren’t working as hard as you. In the long run, your career will be much more successful if you are seen as the member who is quick to support the team. A more proactive way of being a team player is to ask the team leader or members if they need help with anything. Of course, you have to follow through on your offer or the plan will backfire.
Give Regular Updates

Second, active collaboration requires constant communication. Ask for feedback, provide regular status updates, and let people know what you’re working on. We have to get out of our individualistic and self-protective mode of thinking and make our work visible to others. Be open to suggestions, and avoid being too attached to your own ideas or your own way of doing things.
Be Accommodating

Finally, be easy to get along with. Give others the benefit of the doubt and express your appreciation for their contributions. Be flexible with the small things. Try not to let petty conflicts bother you and never speak poorly of a fellow team member or the team leader.

Video

Books to Read

The SPEED of Trust: The One Thing That Changes Everything

The Speed of Trust offers an eminently practical look at exactly how trust functions in every relationship – from the most personal to the most indirect interaction – and how to establish trust immediately so that you and your organization can focus on the task at hand.

Co-Opetition

Intel, Nintendo, American Express, NutraSweet, American Airlines, and dozens of other companies have been using the strategies of co-opetition to improve performance.

Difficult People at Work – Communication, Conflict Resolution, and Cooperation with Difficult Coworkers

This book helps readers understand how to resolve conflict in the workplace. It focuses on how to deal with difficult coworkers.

Getting Past No

Getting Past No is the state-of-the-art book on negotiation. It will help you deal with tough times, tough people, and tough negotiations. You don’t have to get mad or get even. Instead, you can get what you want.

Management: Leading and Collaborating in a Competitive World

This text reinforces the four traditional functions of management including planning, organizing, leading, and controlling, while re-visioning concepts such as delivering strategic value, building a dynamic organization, mobilizing people, and change management.

Websites to Visit

9 Ways to Make Yourself Easy to Work With

Includes techniques for becoming a better team player including “make connections” and “say yes.”

10 Tips for Getting Your Colleagues to Work With You Better

Recommends specific techniques such as “give your coworker an incentive.”

5 Ways to Deal with a Tough Boss

Suggestions for improving your relationship with a challenging boss or manager.

Forming Better Office and Professional Relationships

Explains how to develop cooperative relationships at work.

5 Ways of Dealing with Workplace Conflict

Describes how conflict emerges in organizations and offers suggestions on how to manage it.