What are the best practices for collaborating with professionals from other fields?

2 Communicate clearly and openly

Communication is key to successful collaboration. You need to communicate clearly and openly with professionals from other fields, using language that is accessible, respectful, and inclusive. You also need to listen actively, provide feedback, and seek clarification. You can use strategies such as the SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) model to structure your communication, or the OARS (Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflections, Summaries) technique to enhance your communication skills.

3 Establish common goals and roles

To collaborate effectively, you need to have a shared vision and purpose for your work. You need to establish common goals and objectives that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. You also need to clarify your roles and responsibilities, and respect the boundaries and scopes of practice of each professional. You can use tools such as the RACI (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed) matrix to define your roles and expectations.

4 Resolve conflicts constructively

Collaborating with professionals from other fields can sometimes lead to conflicts, due to different opinions, values, or interests. You need to be able to resolve conflicts constructively, by using skills such as negotiation, mediation, or compromise. You need to acknowledge the conflict, express your views and feelings, listen to the other party, explore options, and reach a mutually acceptable solution. You can use models such as the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument (TKI) to assess your conflict style and adapt it to the situation.

5 Reflect and evaluate

Collaborating with professionals from other fields is a learning opportunity. You need to reflect on your experiences, identify what worked well and what needs improvement, and seek feedback from others. You also need to evaluate the outcomes of your collaboration, using indicators such as client satisfaction, quality of service, or efficiency of work. You can use tools such as the Interprofessional Collaborative Practice Assessment Rubric (ICPAR) to measure your collaboration performance.

6 Celebrate and appreciate

Collaborating with professionals from other fields can be rewarding and enjoyable. You need to celebrate and appreciate the achievements and contributions of each professional, and acknowledge the diversity and richness of their perspectives. You can do this by expressing gratitude, giving compliments, sharing success stories, or organizing social events. You can also use tools such as the Interprofessional Appreciative Inquiry (IPAI) to enhance your appreciation and recognition of each other.

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?