Adapting to hybrid and remote work arrangements has transformed how we collaborate. While teams have found creative ways to stay organized, connected, and engaged without in-person interactions, additional skills are needed to elevate your workplace collaboration skills in this evolving landscape.Here are five ways to become a consummate collaborator, whatever your work environment:1. Communicate clearlyOne of today’s most sought-after job skills, communication, is the bedrock of effective collaboration in the workplace. Misunderstandings can derail projects, so it’s crucial to be clear, timely and mindful of your tone.Tip: Instead of assuming everyone understands, ask clarifying questions to ensure everyone is on the same page. For example, if you’re leading a meeting, summarize key points at the end and invite questions to avoid any ambiguity.2. Choose the right digital tool for the right taskSelecting the right digital tool for each task is crucial for efficient collaboration. For projects requiring real-time input from multiple contributors, cloud-based tools like Google Docs or Microsoft Office 365 allow simultaneous editing and commenting, minimizing email back-and-forth. For managing complex projects with multiple tasks and deadlines, project management software like Trello or Asana helps organize tasks, set deadlines, and track progress.Tip: Reserve videoconferencing tools like Zoom for discussions requiring face-to-face interaction.3. Go beyond your comfort zoneTaking on projects that fall outside your area of specialization can make you a better collaborator because you must learn from the expertise of others. This can improve your understanding of your colleagues’ challenges and enhance your ability to collaborate effectively.Tip: Spend a day shadowing a colleague from a different department to gain insight into their daily tasks and workflows. This not only fosters better collaboration, but also mutual respect.4. Find or become a mentorAsk coworkers for their advice when you recognize that they have expertise in areas you may lack. Likewise, use your know-how to help others, even when there doesn’t seem to be a direct benefit to you. All of this builds your ability to collaborate.Tip: If your organization doesn’t have a formal mentorship program, take the initiative to find a mentor. Approach a senior colleague whose skills you admire and ask if they’d be willing to share their knowledge. Similarly, you can be a mentor to newer employees to help them integrate into the team.5. Participate in team-building activitiesPlaying virtual games as a team might seem silly to some, but time spent working with a group toward the same goal helps boost collaboration abilities. It also helps build a culture of belonging, which leads to happier and more productive teams.Tip: Suggest simple team-building exercises to your supervisor as a way to promote teamwork. For instance, a Friday virtual coffee break can provide a relaxed setting for team members to connect.
Don’t stop with just these five tips. There are many more ways to boost your workplace collaboration skills. For example:
When you work with team members on interdepartmental projects, be especially attuned to new perspectives and knowledge bases.Focus on fostering an inclusive mindset by embracing diversity and respecting differing viewpoints.Recognize when someone else has a stronger idea than your own and support it, and give credit where credit is due.We know that developing these skills is crucial for success in today’s hybrid and remote workplaces. Implementing these tips can help you enhance your value to your team and organization, making you a more effective and sought-after professional.
