How do you follow up and maintain the relationship with other teams after a cross-functional negotiation?

1 Set clear expectations

The first step after a cross-functional negotiation is to set clear expectations for each team's roles, responsibilities, and deliverables. You should document and communicate the key points of the agreement, the timeline, the milestones, the metrics, and the feedback mechanisms. This will help avoid confusion, misunderstanding, and ambiguity later on. You should also assign a point of contact or a liaison for each team who can coordinate, update, and escalate issues as needed.

2 Provide support and resources

The second step after a cross-functional negotiation is to provide support and resources to the other teams to help them execute their tasks and achieve their goals. You should offer your expertise, guidance, and assistance whenever possible and appropriate. You should also share relevant information, data, and tools that can facilitate their work. By providing support and resources, you show that you value and respect the other teams' contributions and capabilities.

3 Monitor progress and performance

The third step after a cross-functional negotiation is to monitor the progress and performance of the other teams and the overall project. You should track and measure the results against the agreed-upon metrics and criteria. You should also solicit and provide feedback regularly and constructively. You should celebrate the successes and acknowledge the challenges. You should also identify and address any issues, risks, or conflicts that may arise along the way.

4 Recognize and appreciate

The fourth step after a cross-functional negotiation is to recognize and appreciate the other teams' efforts and achievements. You should express your gratitude and appreciation for their work and collaboration. You should also highlight their strengths and areas of improvement. You should also give credit and recognition where it is due. By recognizing and appreciating the other teams, you foster a positive and productive relationship that can last beyond the project.

5 Learn and improve

The fifth step after a cross-functional negotiation is to learn and improve from the experience. You should conduct a post-mortem or a debrief session with the other teams to review the outcomes, the process, and the lessons learned. You should also solicit and provide feedback on the negotiation skills, strategies, and techniques used. You should also document and share the best practices, insights, and recommendations for future cross-functional negotiations.

6 Stay in touch

The sixth and final step after a cross-functional negotiation is to stay in touch with the other teams. You should maintain regular communication and rapport with them. You should also follow up on any pending or unresolved issues or actions. You should also look for opportunities to collaborate or partner with them again on other projects or initiatives. By staying in touch, you build trust, credibility, and goodwill with the other teams.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?