7: Roleplay: How (not) to have a cross-department collaboration
Show Notes for the Podcast Episode:
Have you ever been in a situation where you needed to collaborate on a project with someone outside your department or team?
It can be either a mutually enjoyable experience or one that you tell your coworkers about with anger and frustration in your voice.
Join us today for a roleplay podcast episode, where we demonstrate two versions of cross-department collaboration and debrief after each with key lessons on what makes these conversations challenging and what you can change to make conversations and collaborations more productive and successful.
Introduction:
- The episode begins with a realistic roleplay of a challenging conversation between two colleagues, Chris and Lucie, addressing workload issues, deadlines, and team dynamics in a high-pressure environment.
Key Topics Discussed:
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The Initial Confrontation:
- Lucie approaches Chris with an urgent request for a slide deck, bio, and pictures for an upcoming recruitment fair, highlighting the importance of meeting tight deadlines.
- Chris expresses his overwhelming workload and inability to meet the immediate request, leading to a tense exchange.
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Stress Factors and Organizational Changes:
- Discussion of additional stress factors, such as company reorganization and covering for absent colleagues.
- The conversation sheds light on the impact of organizational changes on individual workloads and team dynamics.
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Communication Breakdowns and Pressure:
- Analysis of how both parties communicated under pressure, including instances of talking over each other and competing over who was more overwhelmed.
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Lack of Empathy and Understanding:
- Insight into how the lack of empathy and understanding can escalate workplace tensions.
- The conversation pivots to finding a resolution and exploring how each could have approached the situation differently.
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Alternative Approaches and Solutions:
- A second roleplay shows a more empathetic and collaborative approach to the situation.
- Exploration of alternative solutions, including delegating tasks, repurposing existing materials, and adjusting project quality expectations.
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Importance of Active Listening and Collaboration:
- Emphasis on the significance of active listening, acknowledging each other's challenges, and working collaboratively towards a solution.
- Discussion on how a change in approach can lead to more productive outcomes and preserve professional relationships.
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Long-term Impact on Team Dynamics:
- Examination of how such interactions can affect long-term team dynamics, trust, and collaboration.
- Strategies for maintaining a positive and supportive work environment amidst challenges.
Follow us on social media:
Connect with Chris Wong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc/
Connect with Lucie Tesarova: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova/
