As a seasoned executive-administrative professional, Paula Pipitone understands the importance of developing a collaborative culture in the workplace. A culture of collaboration is not only focused on clear communication and cooperation; it is also about maximizing the specific skills of every team member. Efficient collaboration can contribute to productivity, creativity, and innovation. All the benefits of a collaborative culture add up to increased profitability. Despite the advantages of such a work environment, many businesses struggle because they are missing significant components of cultural development.
Paula Pipitone Talks About the 5 Keys of a Collaborative Workplace
Building collaboration within your organization is a complex process and doesn’t always occur naturally. Organizational workflows require planning and design to ensure collaborative efforts.
Teams do not magically possess the tools to form cooperative processes. Each team member must learn the skills. Each task must include opportunities. A culture of collaboration depends on five keys or elements.
1. Communication
Effective communication is the foundation of any successful organization. Professional communication skills require practice and instruction. For an employee to integrate into a collaborative culture, they must interface with people, specifically peers, managers, and organizational leaders. Also, every team member needs to learn how to communicate in person and through writing.
2. Sharing of Knowledge
Paula Pipitone explains collaborative cultures limit information barriers. The primary objective of collaboration is to reduce the number of hurdles someone has to jump to get the information they need to complete a project. Open access to essential knowledge allows all team members room to excel in their positions and contribute meaningfully to projects and teams.
3. Transparency
Transparency is somewhat connected to effective communication. It is about everyone in the company, from subordinates to executives, contributing to an honest organization. Teams should share daily news and common goals. Also, they should focus on discussing duties openly. Company leaders should also share details about company performance and objectives.
4. Engagement
A culture of collaboration breeds engagement. People will feel more energized when asked to participate in group and team activities. Also, despite working as a team, most employees will feel more satisfied with their position and valued, according to Paula Pipitone.
5. Trust
Finally, for a culture of collaboration to thrive, employees and corporate leaders need to have trust in the operation and its leadership. Trust requires relationship-building at and across every level of the business.
Paula Pipitone Offers a Blueprint for Establishing a Collaborative Culture
Establishing a culture of collaboration requires time and hard work. If you are willing to make the investment, there are several things to consider and do as you strive to revamp your organization:
- Locate collaborative leaders and create a vision
- Assess current culture
- Bring people together and embrace differences
- Utilize tech and create feedback systems
- Consider incentive and reward teamwork
Creating a culture of collaboration can seem overwhelming, but as a seasoned professional, Paula Pipitone knows it is possible. Hold a company meeting and discuss efforts to introduce new collaborative initiatives.
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