How to Improve Team Collaboration (Part 2 of 2)

We started talking about how to improve team collaboration in last week’s episode and we’re wrapping this conversation up today.

As a review, the first six reasons a team fails and the solution:

1.    Assembling a homogeneous team – a bunch of “mini me’s”

2.    Lack of communication/unclear communication/miscommunication

3.    Clash of personalities and different working styles

4.    Lack of a clear purpose for the team

5.    Lack of tools needed for success

6.    Not celebrating success

7.    Fear of judgment / rejection

Why this is a problem: Nothing will shut the mouths, and creative juices, of a team faster than a fear that they will be judged or rejected for their ideas. This will hold down the best solutions – and create tension and uncertainty within the team.

The solution:   Avoid imposing unnecessary “rules” that my stifle creativity. Prioritize creative freedom and encourage diversity of ideas.

There are many activities and processes to help with this – your L&D team should be able to help you here.

8.    Not valuing innovation

Why this is a problem: When team members get a whiff of “business as usual” or “your ideas aren’t welcomed here,” they shut down and disengage.

The solution: Create spaces where team members can easily pitch innovative concepts, such as an online suggestion box, holding regular brainstorming sessions, or establishing innovation labs.

9.    Meeting them to death

Why this is a problem: Unnecessary meetings – especially meetings to prepare for other meetings – will wear your team’s enthusiasm down quickly.

The solution: Meetings are important, and when done properly, will get the job done effectively. You can also use tech to cut down on meetings. Rather than hold yet another status meeting, message the latest milestone to your team in Slack, or solicit approvals and feedback on a shared document.

Consider:

• A daily check-in meeting gives a chance for everyone to share their goals for the day and any roadblocks that need clearing

•  Regular face-to-face video calls keep colleagues accountable for team goals

•  For longer projects (or established teams), weave in team lunches or events. It lets people connect outside of work and fosters camaraderie

•  Establish an agenda for each proper meeting – this will allow the introverts on your team to bring their best ideas to the meeting

10.Allowing conflict to fester

Why this is a problem: I don’t feel the need to tell you this.

The solution: Set ground rules around your expectations on communication with mutual respect and make a rule that everyone has input into decisions – but once that decision is made, everyone must commit to it.

If this becomes a problem – or if you see it heading in that direction, consider having someone step in for a session on active listening and communication.

In summary, build a diverse team, give them the tools and autonomy to do good work, provide the proper support structure for them to succeed, celebrate their wins, and quickly address any barriers to their success.