Moshe’s Blog

6 Keys to Get to Next Level Collaboration

What Next Level Collaboration Looks like

Amare companies take collaboration to the next level— elevating it to mean we’re in this together, we’re aligned and actively working toward shared goals, and we’re creating greater value jointly. They care about and collaborate with all their stakeholders – not just shareholders – routinely creating win-win-win situations.

Meaningful and effective collaboration can take many forms. No matter the project, the energy of meaningful collaboration is engaging and uplifting. “Better together” is not a trite claim, it’s a lived reality.

Is collaboration built into the ways your teams work, without overdoing it to the point of burnout?

Do you regularly listen to customers, and act on what they say?

Do you work together with competitors toward shared aims that uplift all?

Do your stakeholders care if you succeed?

6 Amare Steps to Get to Next Level Collaboration

1. Check your mindset. Be honest about whether your organization genuinely values collaboration or sees it as gimmicky or unhelpful. Then ask if your investment matches your attitude.

2. Set mutual goals. Get super-clear on what your collaborative goals are. Ask your stakeholders if they share and value those goals. If they don’t, look for common ground you can build on.

3. Listen, listen, listen. Audit how often and when you invite your various stakeholders to provide meaningful input. Work with your team to maximize those opportunities and to visibly act on what you learn.

4. Avoid “empty” collaboration. Avoid calling activities teambuilding or engagement or collaboration if the real intent is only to check off a box. Empty collaboration builds resentment and distrust.

5. Don’t overdo it. When collaboration becomes cult-like, people are pulled into so many meetings that they have no time or energy to do uninterrupted deeper work on their own. Ask your people if it’s too much.

6. Collaborate with competitors. Identify three win-win opportunities with competitors, like setting industry policy, sponsoring a trade association, advancing basic research, and even referring business to them.

Note: Collaboration is the “C” in the ABC pillars of the Amare Way (A is for Authenticity, B is for Belonging). Get lots more tips and stories on the ABCs in Chapter 9 of The Amare Wave.

Take the Next Step as an Amare Leader

Real collaboration changes everything. Get yourself a coach or thought partner to collaborate with you on your path as an Amare leader, benefiting your company and the world by putting the power of love to work. Email me for suggestions.