Collaboration: The key to success and how to make it easier
Working together is an important value when working in a team. Good cooperation is essential to make organizations stronger and more resilient, to face challenges and to take advantage of opportunities. There are many reasons why working together is important: you can achieve better results, you learn and grow, and strengthening relationships contributes to a positive work culture and thus increases your overall well-being.
If collaboration is so desirable, why is it often not as easy as it seems? Below, I'll describe the most common problems that make working together difficult, followed by evidence-based tips for overcoming these challenges.
Common problems when collaborating
1. Communication issues: Misunderstandings and misinterpretations can occur because team members have different communication styles, cultural backgrounds, or expectations. This can lead to conflicts and inefficiencies.
2. Differences in work styles and personalities: Team members often have different ways of working, priorities and personality traits. This can lead to tension and frustration, especially if team members are not flexible or understanding with each other.
3. Lack of clear goals and roles: Without clear goals and well-defined roles and responsibilities, team members can feel uncertain about what is expected of them. This can result in work overlap, missed deadlines, and reduced motivation.
What can you do yourself to make cooperation a little easier? Three steps to make collaboration easier:
1. Promote Effective Communication: According to Harvard Business Review research, regular and structured communication is crucial for successful teams. Open communication promotes transparency and trust within the team.
Practical Tips:
- Use the right tools: Use project management software such as Trello or Asana and communication apps such as Slack to share information and updates in a structured way.
- Hold regular meetings: Schedule weekly or biweekly team meetings to share updates, discuss issues, and provide feedback.
- Clear and simple language: Avoid jargon and make sure your message is clear and concise.
2. Strengthen team cohesion and engagement
Studies show that team building activities increase trust and cohesion within teams. A close team dynamic leads to better performance and greater satisfaction among team members.
Practical Tips:
- Organize team building activities: These can be workshops, sporting events or informal meetings. The goal is to get to know each other better and build a relationship.
- Create an inclusive culture: Encourage an environment where team members feel safe to share their ideas and feedback without fear of negative consequences.
3. Set clear goals and division of roles
according A Stanford University study, setting clear, shared goals leads to higher motivation and better performance. Role clarity prevents confusion and inefficiency.
Practical Tips:
- SMART goals: Make sure goals are Specific, Measurable, Acceptable, Realistic, and Timely.
- Distribution of tasks based on strengths: Assign tasks based on team members' strengths and expertise. This increases efficiency and satisfaction.
- Use visual aids: Use Gantt charts or task lists to clearly show progress and responsibilities.
4. Invest in empathy and active listening
University of Michigan research shows that empathy and active listening improve team dynamics by promoting mutual understanding and respect.
Practical Tips:
- Active listening: Pay full attention to the speaker, repeat what you've heard, and ask clarifying questions to make sure you understand the message.
- Showing empathy: Try to empathize with the feelings and perspectives of your team members. This creates an environment where everyone feels heard and valued.
Conclusion
By consciously paying attention to effective communication, team cohesion, clear goals and empathy, you can create an environment where collaboration is smooth and productive.
Ask yourself: how do I work together now and what could I possibly change tomorrow to make it even better to work together? Hopefully, these insights and steps will help you work better together within your team!
For further in-depth practical tips, see also my colleague HannahBohmer's previous English blog: “Become a Better Listener in 3 Steps.”
In addition to mentioning the above, you may have other issues you encounter. For example, does the current position suit you? Or in terms of organization, which direction should you choose? This is where career coach Wendy buijs can support you. You can start with a free intake. Check out her profile here
