How to create synergy in the work place.

Have you ever showed up to a company wide meeting, looked around, and realized how little you know about what your coworkers in other departments do every day? (And come to think about it, they’re probably wondering the same thing about you.)

This disconnect isn’t uncommon, especially in large companies with multiple departments in multiple locations. Even though everyone is, in theory, working toward the same goal, it can be difficult to see it, especially when you don’t understand how all the parts of your organization fit together. But even though it’s tempting to only focus on the things that directly affect us, a lack of synergy can impair – and even undermine – the goals we’re trying to accomplish. In other words, it’s probably worth your while to spend some time thinking about ways to improve synergy and collaboration across your organization. As Aristotle once said, “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” And who can argue with Aristotle?

With the great philosopher in mind, here are five suggestions on how you can increase synergy in your workplace.

Understand your objective. Even though everyone may have different roles within the organization that sometimes seem to compete with each other, it’s important to keep your eye on the prize. Your leadership team needs to make everyone aware of what your organization’s goals and objectives are, and those goals and objectives need to be crystal clear, communicated frequently, and reviewed regularly.   Communicate. Be transparent in sharing information about what you do, and ask questions to find out more about your colleagues and their roles. After all, most people love to talk about themselves! And don’t wait for an emergency to try to build those relationships. Schedule regular meetings and trainings with different departments to talk about how you can help each other in meeting your goals. You might find that you have more in common than you thought!  Use technology to share information. This is a big one, especially in the commercial real estate space where it’s critical that everyone is on the same page. Software products like Remote Property Manager and Space Profile are designed to encourage collaboration by providing consistent property data that can be accessed by multiple users across the organization, eliminating any confusion that can cause disruption in the workflow.  Encourage contribution. Great ideas can just as easily come from a brand-new employee as they can from a seasoned executive. Let your team know that it’s OK – and even encouraged – to bring new ideas to the table. Perhaps it’s implementing a new software solution. Maybe it’s creating a better recycling program. No matter whether their suggestion is utilized or not, make employees feel comfortable coming forward and rewarded for taking initiative.  Make it fun. At ID Plans, we work hard, but we also have fun – in fact, we have a Chief Fun Officer who encourages it! Try to bring in elements of fun whenever you can. At your next staff meeting, ask a question that helps the team get to know each other better. For example, at one of our recent meetings, we talked about our favorite travel destinations. Host holiday potlucks. Start a wellness program, and don’t forget to include your remote workers in the fun as well. It’s a sure way to increase morale and make people enjoy coming to work.

How do you promote synergy in your workplace? Leave your comments.

#contentmarketing #tellyourstory #lifesreal