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The opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
In work life, there are many situations in which co-workers work together. This can be difficult because it is not an employer-employee relationship. In an employer-employee relationship, it is common for the employer to assign tasks to the employee and control those assignments. However, when collaborating with colleagues, it’s important to find ways to complete tasks without seeming directive. This article is intended to provide suggestions for these situations.
1. Don’t be too direct
It’s often important to have a philosophy of don’t ask, don’t tell. Remember to delegate responsibilities rather than assigning tasks. Let others decide for themselves which tasks they want to help with, rather than giving direct instructions. By allowing team members to assume their own responsibilities, you enable your team to contribute meaningfully.Please understand that I said team and it’s not your team. It is very important to be careful when using the term “my team”. Some of my colleagues on the team might have a problem with using that phrase.
Related: Why entrepreneurs need to build good relationships at work
2. Let people do things their way
Many people, myself included, have strong opinions about how certain tasks should be performed. Having a strong opinion like this makes it easier to encourage other members of your team to do the same tasks you do. Embrace diversity and understand that you don’t have all the answers. You need to show your team that you want to work together and that each team member can do things in their own way. By letting people do things their way, you provide a positive work environment and show others that you value their opinions and perspectives.
3. Pay attention to micromanagement
No one likes to be micromanaged, but it’s easy to find yourself micromanaging even if you don’t mean to. Be open-minded and allow others to work at their own pace. It’s okay to follow up with your teammates to check on their progress, but you need to understand how to do this properly. I like to set check-in reminders on my calendar and stick to the dates I set on my calendar. I tend to be impatient, so it helps to have a calendar of when to follow up.
Related: 3 easy ways to empower your team
4.Brainstorming
Ask questions like, “What do you think about this?” or “How do you think we should proceed?” This can help foster team effort within the group. If you disagree with expressing your opinion, the way you express your thoughts is also important. You want to be open-minded and provide a democratic decision-making process to maintain a positive team focused on success.
Related: Two Stanford professors explain how they generate hundreds of world-changing ideas in an hour
5. Dial down
It is important not to overwhelm others. If you’re being too assertive, remember to turn down the volume. You don’t want to act in an intimidating manner or make others uncomfortable. Everyone has a different hat and everyone has their own responsibilities. The next time you think you might be coming on too strong, remember to stay calm and work on softening your approach. The way you solve the problem is as simple as the way you phrase your comment. Phrases like “Would you consider it” or “I’ve been thinking about it” make it easier to let go of control.
6. Stay on the same page
If everyone on the team does not have the same general goal and desire to complete the task, the task will not go well. If you feel like your team isn’t pulling in the same direction, talk it out. Just by clearing up your misconceptions, you may be able to get back on the right path. It is important to establish clear communication channels as early as possible. This will make it easier for everyone on the team to be on the same page. When teams strive to stay on the same page, they act collaboratively and minimize the possibility of divergent efforts.
Related: 7 Benefits of CEO Peer Groups
7. Recognize contributions and celebrate wins.
Don’t forget to acknowledge your support when the work of others aids the team effort. Be sure to acknowledge the contributions of individual team members. Celebrate your wins, no matter the size. These celebrations don’t have to be huge. More importantly, they need to happen. Celebrations can be as simple as a delicious snack or happy hour to bond as a team and enjoy success.
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