Today, I want to dive into a topic that’s been popping up quite a bit lately: the challenge of effectively onboarding new employees while also improving working relationships with existing business partners, including bosses. It’s all about establishing a mutual understanding of how we work best, which can lead to improved discussions and feedback cycles. This approach isn’t just for onboarding—it’s also incredibly useful when you start working with a new team member, especially from a different department, or when you need to re-align a working relationship that’s hit a few bumps.
“Effective communication is the bridge between confusion and clarity.”
– Nat Turner
The Power of Mutual Understanding
Imagine stepping into a new job or collaborating with a new colleague and feeling an immediate sense of clarity and connection. How amazing would that be? Establishing a mutual understanding of how we work best is the key to making this happen. It sets the stage for open communication, smoother interactions, and a more cohesive working environment. Let’s break down how we can achieve this.
Communication Styles: The Foundation of Collaboration
One of the first steps in building a strong working relationship is understanding each other’s communication styles. Some of us thrive on detailed emails, while others prefer quick chats or structured meetings. Take the time to discuss and share your preferences. This is even more important in our diverse working environments: in-person, hybrid, and remote. Ask questions like:
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How do you prefer to receive information?
- What’s your favorite way to communicate updates?
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How will we clearly communicate if something is an immediate priority?
By understanding these preferences, you can tailor your communication to be more effective and less stressful for everyone involved.
Leadership Styles: Navigating Different Approaches
Leadership styles can vary widely, and understanding these differences can make a huge impact on how we collaborate. Whether you’re the new hire or the existing team member, it’s beneficial to discuss how each of you likes to lead or be led. Consider questions such as:
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How do you like to be managed?
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How would you describe your leadership style?
These discussions help to align expectations and create a more supportive environment where everyone feels valued.
Constructive Feedback: Building a Feedback-Friendly Culture
Feedback is crucial for growth, but it’s often a tricky area to navigate. Establishing a feedback-friendly culture starts with understanding how each person prefers to give and receive feedback. Open up the conversation with questions like:
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How do you prefer to receive feedback?
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What feedback approach helps you grow the most?
By aligning on these preferences, you create a safe space where feedback is seen as a tool for improvement rather than criticism.
Building Trust and Respect
Trust and respect are the cornerstones of any successful working relationship. They are built over time through consistent actions and open communication. Show appreciation for each other’s efforts, listen actively, and be honest in your interactions. These small but significant actions pave the way for a trusting and respectful work environment.
Leveraging Strengths: Celebrating What We Do Best
Recognizing and utilizing each other’s strengths can transform how we work together. When onboarding a new employee or starting a new collaboration, take the time to explore each other’s key strengths. Ask questions like:
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What are your key strengths?
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How can we leverage our strengths to achieve our goals?
By focusing on what each person does best, you can create a more dynamic and effective team. Consider trying the updated CliftonStrengths Top 5 Report.
Final Thoughts
Strong working relationships aren’t built overnight. They require intentional effort, open communication, and a willingness to understand and support each other. By establishing a mutual understanding of how we work best, we can open the door to improved discussions, better feedback cycles, and a more harmonious work environment.
So, whether you’re welcoming a new employee, starting a new collaboration, or re-aligning an existing relationship, remember that the key lies in mutual understanding and open communication. Let’s create workplaces where everyone feels empowered, valued, and ready to thrive!
