There is an African proverb that goes “If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
Fundamental to good teamwork and therefore the success of your team is the ability to coordinate successfully with one another.
This is often easier said than done and it can be traced back to the following three elements:
1. Clear communication
How can you coordinate well with others if they can’t understand you?
When speaking keep your language simple and jargon free. Speak slowly and clearly and don’t be afraid to ask your audience to confirm that they’ve understood what you mean.
This applies as much to listening as it does to speaking. Learn to listen actively and devote your whole attention to the person speaking.
Again, don’t be afraid to ask questions for clarification.
2. Understanding each other’s personality types
We are all motivated in slightly different ways.
In order to get the best out of your colleagues, take time to observe the way they prefer to work.
For example, people’s approach to time varies considerably. Some like to be given plenty of time up front to complete the task whilst others prefer to work ‘under pressure’.
If you work with rather than against their natural tendencies then you will find that your working relationship is smoother.
3. Get organised
You need to be organised.
It’s your responsibility to manage your own workload and ensure that it fits with the overall output of the organisation.
This also gives you the flexibility to handle problems as and when they arise.
Why is it important?
- Poor coordination leads to suboptimal outcomes. You and your organisation will suffer.
- When things go wrong it enables you to get back on track more quickly.
- It gives you the ability to foresee potential problems and obstacles before they happen.
How do I become better at it?
Here are 6 ways to improve your ability to coordinate with others:
- Learn how to be a clear communicator. Check your team have understood you correctly.
- Learn to be a better listener.
- Learn how to give feedback.
- Learn how to receive feedback.
- Become better at managing deadlines.
- Check-in regularly with your team to find out how they are progressing with their individual tasks.
