Get Your Students Hired
Number five, lead by example. We are a fairly small campus with owners usually on site. They do a great job of leading by example and allowing that to run throughout the management team, faculty and staff.
Our school has bi-monthly meetings of the department heads and I feel we pull many of the principles of collaboration into our decision making of student concerns, faculty concerns, etc. We listen and provide feedback, brainstorm, show our support for that instructor and if that same concern arose in the past, look at how we dealt with the issue and see if it's something that can be applied to the current situation. If not, brainstorm some more, look at the big picture, listen to other's ideas, etc. Some of our faculty members have been at the school for 30 years or more and some have been only a few years. So, hearing the different points of view and taking a step back before making a final decision has worked well with our team.
I feel we have a strong focus on the first principal in that if a situation needs resolved, we don't pass blame around to an individual or department but rather focus on the problem as a whole and then the best way in which to find a solution.
Mitch,
Having a common goal especially a goal focused on the student is a great tool in effective collaboration. What else can you do to improve collaboration with your team?
Dr. Jean Norris
We have a strong foundation at our organization and all have a common goal to achieve success and help students become successful
We are learning to be much more collaborative within our department. There are several factors which this lesson that lead to positive collaboration that I look forward to sharing with my peers. Such as making sure that this is truly a trusting and positive environment and that we stay focused on what the issues are and not the people.
The organization I work for is outstanding. We all help each other regardless of the department we work in. If someone is not sure about something or needs help a co-worker is quick to assist. We all seem to have the same goals in making our school a success.
We are struggling with our start right now, so we are getting together every afternoon to discuss our progress. Each team is involved and are working together to make it happen.
Ferline, these are great points. Everyone makes mistakes and it sounds like, more importantly, that everyone collaborates, learns from them and then improves the next time that situation occurs.
Dr. Jean Norris
Based on their contents, they are all applied in my organization. However, a bold focus is placed on Principles 4 and Principles 5 because we are always seeking ways to improve, be proactive, and be solution-driven.
As we focus on improving things, we acknowledge mistakes, learn from them and move forward.
Sharon, that is a great point. It sounds like you prefer to maintain the self-esteem of others during team meetings or discussions. This can continue to maintain relationships in the workplace as well as allow for the free sharing of ideas. Great job.
Dr. Jean Norris
Brainstorming before making a decision is such a valuable part of collaboration. I like hearing others share their ideas, as well as share my own and feel they will be accepted - no putdowns.
Brannon,
Very well said and a great practice. Have you ever been in a situation where the focus was on the person? If so...how did that turn out?
Dr. Jean Norris
At my job the we always focus on the situation. We have a smaller campus so the topic is always the issue and not the person. I believe with a smaller staff you have to consider your group dynamics and create a culture where the task or problem is the center of the discussion.
Ricardo,
Handling issues that occur with students and each other in a professional way is a crucial element to effective collaboration. Understanding each other's point of view and how to compromise to get the best solution for all involved is a great goal to have.
Shannon Gormley
When dealing with issues are other situation that
might occur we handle them in a professional manner, therefore we are able to come to an agreement that work best for all
Richard,
Thank you for sharing. It sounds like your school definitely encourages collaboration within departments as well as beyond, which is wonderful! It also looks like you've implemented a process that allows staff to share accomplishments, celebrate success stories related to students, and offers opportunities for improvement through professional and personal development. I get the sense that your institution and the staff is dedicated to your students and committed to continued success. Keep up the great work!
Shannon Gormley
We all share a common goal and that is to enroll quality students and them place them in jobs after graduation. I am an admissions rep and we all have goals we need to obtain for each class start. We each have individual goals but we must meet a team goal as well. I am very lucky where the admissions reps all help each other be successful. We know each others strengths and use them to our advantage.The whole school from finacial aid to the admin assistants show great custumer service to help obtain goals. If we do well we are rewarded for our accomplishments. we always have meetings so people are on the same page and sharing ideas is very common. We are always looking to improve though and one of the ways we do that is by taking online classes just like this one and then sharing our findings with the rest of hte group.
Thanks for sharing Josh. It sounds like a collaborative work environment is valued at your institution. It's wonderful to recognize those individuals and their accomplishments. I also get the sense that the team activities have a dual purpose, recognizing the efforts of the team while building a cohesive unit.
We try to do a lot to honor people who are doing a good job. When people work here and do well, they are rewarded. We also do team building exercises and have gone on rafting, outdoor activities. I know they are cliche trust falls have been very effective.