Collaboration isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the heartbeat of effective veterinary care – and we’ll show you why.
In this three-part series, we will identify the common challenges that can limit your success as a cohesive unit and how you can cultivate a more collaborative work culture.
The Essence of Collaboration
Collaboration is about more than working together; it’s about the synergy that is created when each team member understands their role and contributes to collective goals.
Usually, we focus on high-performing individuals, but that’s like building a strong wall without the mortar to hold it together.
The real strength lies in the collaboration between individuals – the difference between a “team of champions” and a “champion team.”
This concept is beautifully illustrated through sports:
Consider a junior soccer team composed entirely of state-level players. On paper, they seem unstoppable. However, their self-interest overshadows the team’s success, leading to a surprising defeat against a group of average players who understood the power of teamwork.
Similarly, the 2003 US Women’s 4 x 100m Relay team, expected to win, faltered due to a mismanaged baton transfer. These examples remind us that even exceptional talent can stumble without effective collaboration.
In the world of veterinary medicine, collaboration is equally critical. Think about how researchers worldwide join forces to develop life-saving medications. Their collective efforts are vital in bringing essential treatments to market.
Common Challenges in Collaboration
Despite its potential, collaboration often doesn’t unfold as planned.
Here are four common pitfalls to watch out for:
Lack of Clarity:
Confusion can arise as roles evolve due to personnel changes or a growing business. This uncertainty can create a “stormy environment”, as outlined by Bruce Tuckman’s stages of team development. Leaders need to ensure there’s a clear and updated understanding of each team member’s role and their specific responsibilities.
Eroding Trust:
Trust is the foundation of effective collaboration. However, when trust begins to erode, silos can form, leading to isolated groups that struggle to work together. Regularly revisiting and reinforcing team values can help maintain that essential trust, guide interactions, and ensure that everyone is aligned on shared principles.
Psychological Safety:
Psychological safety is crucial for fostering open communication. When team members feel comfortable expressing their thoughts or concerns, it leads to better problem-solving. Research by Amy Edmondson shows teams that discuss their mistakes openly exhibit higher levels of psychological safety. Encouraging healthy banter and candid discussions can significantly enhance collaboration.
Reluctance to Delegate:
Finally, a common stumbling block arises when leaders hesitate to delegate tasks. As practices grow, leaders must learn to trust their team members with responsibilities. However, the desire for perfection over progress can stifle growth. Leaders who prioritise skill development and encourage a “70% solution” foster an environment where team members feel motivated to learn and grow.
Wrapping Up
We’ve outlined the four areas to focus on for successful collaboration: clarity of roles, trust, psychological safety, and delegation.
By addressing these areas, we can create a more effective and harmonious work environment and lay the foundation for a team culture of collaboration.
Join us for Part 2, where we explore how collaboration can produce results that exceed the sum of individual contributions!
