How to collaborate effectively

You may think effective collaborative is a given, that every-one knows how to do it. This is not always the case.

In my HR days, we would sit around the conference table to work out the best way to ensure the company’s survival and the fairest way to effect redundancies.

Most often there was a solution to save jobs. Sometimes though, it wasn’t as easy to get that solution across to those present. Not every-one was sitting at the table with the same agenda.

Once I started my own business, I was determined to always see clients as people and hold that person at the centre of all I do. That is my sole agenda.

Recently it became apparent I needed to change my business model. Part of these changes meant I was to expand in ways I didn’t want to. Needless to say I was scared senseless!

Turns out, this was the best thing to ever happen to me! I so wish I had this knowledge in my HR days. However, now I can apply these learnings going forward. Share them with as many people as possible, so we can create a new future together:

To collaborate effectively, there needs to be a shared goal.

A vision where all involved are aligned and work towards the same end result, helps to keep you true to the original inspiration. From two people hosting a joint workshop through to a team hosting a community event, vision is what unites you all as a team.

Knowing what you bring to the table is valuable.

We all have a skill or super-power that others don’t. Sharing selflessly, rolling your sleeves up and contributing leads to all being successful. Share your talents; however create a balance between listening and contributing. The magic ratio is usually 2:1 as in two ears and one mouth. Listen twice, talk once creates a great balance and enhances understanding!

Energy flows where intention goes.

Know and appreciate what you all want to get out of the collaboration effort. The mind-set you walk into the room with is the result you will walk out with. Share, care, stay true to your vision and success will surely follow. Place your energy where it matters most. Focus on what you do want to achieve. Anything less than that and, well, need I say more!

Lose the ego.

There is nothing personal involved. Contributing from a point of serving means every-one gets heard, understood and their own ideas tested in with the mix. Simply ensuring your efforts are congruent, means the client is getting the best of all expertise and value possible. That is what will attract even more clients your way.

Understand yourself.

We all have our own ways and the odd quirk or two. If you know your personality type, tell others. If the people you are collaborating with understand this, things work a whole lot more smoothly. If you are not a regular team player, that’s ok. Let the others know and they will take that into account. Differences are a really good thing; they lead to fresh approaches and new solutions.

Stay open and flexible.

Being open to seeing different perspectives and allowing new ways of doing things helps you to grow and evolve. Moving forward, learning new skills and learning from your colleagues’ shows your commitment to making your clients successful. What more could future clients want?

These six tips will get you further along your path than you could ever imagine. Go out there, join your tribe and make your own definition of collaboration. Whatever that definition is, share your gifts with the world any way and collaborate effectively.

Cheryl-lya is a Soul Adventurer, helping women around the globe plan, launch and grow successful and sustainable businesses. She runs workshops alongside one-to-one coaching. To contact her: call UK mobile 07527 303 911, or visit her website soulscompass.net . Say ‘hello’ or share your joys via email: cheryllyas@btinternet.com 

 

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