The results revealed some interesting insights about how leaders are perceived in terms of encouraging teamwork and collaboration within their organisations.
Out of the respondents who took the survey, it is noteworthy that only 6% rated their leaders’ efforts to encourage teamwork as excellent. On the other hand, 34% of respondents rated their leaders as good, indicating that collaboration is only moderately encouraged within their organisations. However, the most substantial portion of the results lies in the middle ground, with 34% rating their leaders’ efforts as average, and 24% expressed a below-average perception of their leaders’ ability to foster collaboration. This suggests that there is significant room for improvement in promoting collaboration and breaking down barriers across the organisation.
Only 6% of leaders are excellent at promoting teamwork.
A call for more collaborative leadership
The fact that only a minority of respondents rated their leaders’ encouragement of teamwork as excellent highlights the need for leaders to prioritise and actively foster collaboration within their teams. It is essential for leaders to cultivate an environment where individuals feel motivated to work together, share ideas, and collectively contribute to the organisation’s goals.
The State of Agile report 2022 identifies ‘company culture and lack of management support are the two top leading causes of unsuccessful delivery with agile”
Recognising the importance of collaboration
The significant percentage of respondents who rated their leaders as average suggests that some organisations may not fully comprehend the value and impact of collaboration. Leaders must understand that collaboration drives innovation, enhances problem-solving capabilities, greater engagement, better decision-making and improved results. Encouraging collaboration should be seen as a strategic imperative rather than a mere checkbox to tick.
Paul Grew, head of coaching at Agility in Mind states ‘collaboration can lead to a greater sense of engagement and motivation among team members as they feel part of a community working towards a common goal. You’ll get more from your team the more you collaborate. ‘
Identifying barriers to collaboration
The results also highlight the need for leaders to identify and address barriers that hinder effective collaboration. These barriers may include siloed departments, lack of communication channels, or outdated hierarchical structures. By actively breaking down these barriers, leaders can create an environment that promotes open communication, knowledge sharing, and cross-functional teamwork.
Encouraging a Culture of Collaboration:
To create a culture of collaboration within organisations, leaders must take proactive steps. Here are a few suggested actions:
- Lead by example: Leaders should demonstrate their commitment to collaboration by actively participating in cross-functional projects, seeking input from team members, and creating opportunities for collaboration.
- Foster a safe and inclusive environment: Leaders should encourage open dialogue, value diverse perspectives, and create a safe space where individuals feel comfortable sharing their ideas and opinions.
- Invest in collaboration tools and training: Providing the necessary tools and training to enhance collaboration can significantly impact team dynamics and productivity. Leaders should invest in technologies that facilitate communication, knowledge sharing, and collaborative work processes.
Collaboration is not just a buzzword; it is the fuel that drives organisational success in today’s interconnected world. The results from our Agile Leadership Scorecard indicate that there is room for improvement when it comes to leaders encouraging teamwork and breaking down barriers to collaboration. By recognising the importance of collaboration, addressing barriers, and fostering a culture of teamwork, leaders can unlock the full potential of their organisations.
If you’re curious about how well leaders in your organisation encourage teamwork and collaboration, we invite you to take our Agile Leadership Scorecard!
Visit the Agile Leadership Scorecard to gain valuable insights and discover areas for improvement. Together, let’s build a more collaborative and successful future for your organisation.
