Aligning with partners
Functional teams typically have a whole range of simultaneous efforts, intentions, and goals. Taking proactive measures to align with cross-functional partners is how we avoid conflicts and, further, how we start to achieve a more productive partnership. We align with our partners by adopting a same-team attitude, uniting team visions, providing clarity on roles, and providing an aligned structure.
Adopting a same-team attitude
The way to create an aligned cross-functional team is to start acting like a single team. Give the whole team a sense that they are in this together and they have each other’s backs. That means that for everyone on the cross-functional team, their goals are your goals and their problems are your problems. Believe this and demonstrate it through your words and actions. Enthusiastically tackle the challenges of your cross-functional partners. Look for mutually beneficial solutions and approaches.
Make sure any competition...
