Your cross-functional team is at odds over priorities. How can you foster trust and collaboration among them?

1 Build Empathy

Understanding the perspectives of each team member is crucial for resolving conflicts over priorities. Encourage your team to share their viewpoints and listen actively to each other. This exercise is not just about airing grievances; it's an opportunity to build empathy. When team members understand the challenges and pressures their colleagues face, they're more likely to find common ground. This mutual understanding lays the foundation for trust, which is essential for effective collaboration.

2 Align Goals

A key step in fostering collaboration is aligning your team's goals. Start by identifying the overarching objectives that everyone shares, regardless of department or function. This common purpose acts as a North Star, guiding the team's efforts and decisions. Once this is established, work with the team to prioritize tasks in a way that advances these collective goals. This doesn't mean individual priorities are ignored; rather, they are integrated into a larger, shared vision.

3 Communicate Openly

Open communication is the lifeblood of any collaborative effort. Encourage your team to express their thoughts and concerns transparently. This means not only talking about what's going well but also addressing issues head-on before they escalate. By establishing regular check-ins and fostering an environment where feedback is welcomed and acted upon, you'll create a culture of open dialogue that can preempt many conflicts over priorities.

4 Foster Inclusion

Inclusivity is key to building a cohesive team. Make sure every team member has a voice in discussions and decisions, especially when setting priorities. When people feel included, they're more invested in the team's success. This sense of belonging can be cultivated through inclusive meeting practices, such as rotating meeting leadership or using round-robin speaking orders, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to contribute.

5 Resolve Conflicts

Conflict is inevitable in any team setting, but it's how you handle it that defines the team's ability to collaborate effectively. When disagreements over priorities arise, address them promptly and constructively. Use conflict resolution techniques like mediation or consensus-building exercises to help team members navigate their differences. Remember, the goal isn't to eliminate conflict but to manage it in a way that strengthens trust and cooperation.