How To

How to Collaborate With Others

Member
By Phaea
User-Submitted Article
(1 Ratings)

Collaborating on a project can be a very rewarding experience, but always a challenge. Egos and ideas are at war, feelings can get hurt and the stakes are high. You can make the process smoother and more rewarding by going about it in the right way.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Make a meeting with all the collaborates to sit down and discuss the project. Let every person say exactly what they are thinking about the end product and the process. Take notes.

  2. Step 2

    If everyone's views are more or less the same, so much the better. If there are obvious differences, take this time to talk them out.

  3. Step 3

    When shooting ideas out, write down everybody's idea. Leave nothing out even if you personally don't think it sounds good. It is very important to take everyone's thoughts seriously.

  4. Step 4

    Always let everyone in on all decisions or actions a few of your group or you alone take or want to take. Remember that everyone has an equal say in what happens and you or a few of you cannot take things into your own hands, even if checking with everyone slows the process down.

  5. Step 5

    The longer you all work together the more specific rolls will come out (IE more business end, more organizational, more creative). Make these rolls as clear as you can, writing out job descriptions if necessary.

  6. Step 6

    When you feel that your collaborator's ego is getting the better of her in a certain circumstance, avoid calling them out on it. This will lead to hurt feelings. Rather, suggest a compromise and work together until you are both happy.

  7. Step 7

    Similarly, if you feel like no one is taking you seriously about an issue you have strong feelings about, instead of being upset, stay calm and suggest a compromise.

  8. Step 8

    Share all accomplishments equally. At the end of the project, despite who did what part, you all should bask in the glory as a team.

Tips & Warnings
  • Keep your temper in check. Nothing destroys a group faster.
  • Do not conspire against a member of the group...EVER.

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