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How to – Get People to Work Together
Posted October 21, 2011
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By Joni Daniels
When departments or project teams are made up of people with a lot in common, connections happens automatically. But when the people have more differences than similarities, it can be a genuine challenge.
If you are the person in the group who is quite different from most of the other members creating rapport, being seen as credible, reading and responding accurately to cues and clues, and adjusting your behavior based on feedback are all challenges. If you are in a leadership role, it's essential to help team members connect to one another and create a positive and solid team culture. If you subscribe to the belief that everyone is unique, then it follows that all teams are made up of members who are different from one another.
When people join a group they have a lot of questions to be answered:
? Will this be a good experience?
? Will this be a safe place to learn?
? Will we develop as a community?
? Who are the other members?
? What will they think of me?
? What will I think of about them?
? Will I fit into the group?
? Will this be worth my time?
Once these questions are answered, people's behaviors and contributions will follow. The goal for a leader is to create an awareness of differences and an appreciation of them, as everyone discovers how to leverage them for the advantage of all.
The leader should work to insure that:
? Everyone's voice is heard
? Differences are noticed and welcomed in an observable way.
? A level playing field exists for all members
Assure group members that are less knowledgeable is key areas that they have a valuable role to play. Connect them to other members who will assist them in developing where it is needed. In this way learning becomes (whether as instructor or learner) part of the environment, making the team a developmental opportunity for everyone.
Nationally recognized Management and Organizational Development Training consultant, author, and professional speaker Joni Daniels has helped thousands of people, teams, and organizations accomplish their professional goals. She is a sought after resource for Fortune 500 clients, professional organizations, not-for-profits, associations, higher education, media outlets and business publications. Sign up for her free quarterly newsletter at www.jonidaniels.com/newsletter.html. Follow Joni on Twitter at http://twitter.com/jonid
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