Collaboration / Partnership

Collaboration in the workplace is when two or more people (often groups) work together through idea sharing to accomplish a common goal.

It is simply teamwork taken to a higher level and it consists of valuing the diverse perspectives of others while fostering positive relations through team collaboration and trust. Leaders demonstrating strength in collaboration build a culture that supports creating and nurturing strategic external partnerships. They work closely in conjunction with new and existing partners to achieve goals for the greater good of the organization.

Fostering collaboration in the workplace provides greater access to the skills and strengths of multiple people and partners. Increasing this access assists employees to develop their own skills through sharing ideas and working together. Collaborations can lead to faster problem solving and increased work efficiency.

Successful collaboration relies on strong communication skills, emotional intelligence, and respect for diversity.

Partnerships are collaborative relationships between organizations that are aimed at working toward shared goals through a division of labour that all parties agree on. Partnerships have the added complexity of requiring shared leadership, ideally among respected individuals who can build consensus and resolve conflict. Partnerships require a high level of trust and honesty. To be successful they should be guided by shared vision and purpose with a commitment from both parties to maintain effective communication and accountability.