Jeff, I like your definition. An important aspect of collaboration is the willingness to work together. If people do not want to come together to reach consensus or a goal, it is not true collaboration. The essential skills you mention, like having an open mind, go a long way in encouraging people to “want to” collaborate. I would also add negotiation as a skill that is beneficial when collaborating. Knowing how to give and take during a project is very helpful. There is a book titled You can Negotiate Anything that is an easy read and has some good practical tips for any type of manager. Dr. Jamie Morley