Real Collaboration

In recent months, I have had the privilege of speaking to, observing and working with a wide variety of leaders - not just in schools but in the charity sector and business world. Through this, I am learning, growing and being inspired by people's experiences, perspectives and insights.

So many modern technologies, like self-scan supermarkets checkouts and pay-by-app in restaurants, are decreasing the necessity for human interaction in society. But, I have found that whenever something amazing happens people are present. When real change occurs or when improvements are made it's usually as a result of peoples' effort, ingenuity or commitment.

During my teacher training, collaboration was often a term overused by mentors and tutors and within schools, collaboration is often forced upon us. I'm sure we have all been in CPD sessions where the latest initiative of coaching triads or action research groups has been launched. It can feel a bit like a party organised by someone that doesn't know you that well. Forced fun is no fun at all and I think the same rule applies with collaboration. If we are compelled or instructed to do something then our engagement and interest will only reach so far. But, when we volunteer, offer or invite collaboration the end result is likely to be far better.

2 + 2 = 15

Real collaboration is when the ideas and efforts of two people combine to produce something greater than the sum of their parts. Synergy.

My experience has been that, when asked, people are often willing and even eager to get involved with projects and support various endeavours. You just have to ask. As the youngest of 5 siblings (by quite some margin), I have always had confidence, with a side portion of independence. So, asking, whether that be for help or for input doesn't always come naturally.

I recently began a new project focused on supporting school leaders to take a sustainable approach to school recovery (watch this space!). I decided to ask some colleagues and contacts for their feedback and input. Now the project has taken on a whole life of its own and what we are co-creating is immeasurably better than my original blueprint. Working with others has also opened up doors to future collaborations and projects which could never have been imagined, if not for that initial, tentative ask.

I also think that the current Covid-19 situation is providing greater opportunities for collaboration. Some people are more open to collaboration as a way to break up the monotony and others are looking to be productive in the time they’ve gained from being at home. Also, everyone is so used to zooming and MS teaming, that all it takes is an ask.

So, in the weeks and months ahead, my encouragement is simply to:

Ask and see where the power of collaboration takes you.

Feel free to share below or with me on Twitter your top tips for collaborating effectively with others.