Strong managers are strong internal partners. They understand the benefits of internal collaboration and know that these things don’t just happen because the organizational chart says it should. Working alongside other managers is not a guarantee that you will develop a good partnership.

Add to that the challenge of only meeting virtually, and you have added a layer that can look like an obstacle to developing strong connections. There is little that is casual about scheduled work meetings.

There are techniques that can enhance a partnership but they must be practiced, and honed to increase the benefit of peer collaboration.

TIPS

• Control Your Controlling – Being a partner requires give and take. There is no ‘boss.’ Resist the urge to direct colleagues watch for clues that others are feeling pushed around. Ask open-ended questions that require information rather than a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ response. Then stop talking and listen to the answer.
  
  
• Socialize - To manage others IS to be social. The more time you spend together, the more natural partnering is going to feel. The more you know someone, the more likely trust can develop. Good communication is an essential part of strong partnerships, these skills will be cultivated as well in the process. You are more likely to partner with people you know well so whether you are outgoing or shy, collegial relationships are the building blocks for internal partnerships. That will mean intentional virtual meetings for the purpose of just getting to know one another (perhaps on a regular basis).
  
  
• Fix the Past – Your past follows you around. If previous relationship issues exist, you will need to resolve them and then put them in the past in order to develop a good foundation. Not everyone wants to improve things but you should always try. If you have tried everything and the past issues cannot (or will not) be resolved, try to work with others.
  
  
• Make Mom Proud – My Mom used to say “If you can’t say something nice about someone, don’t say anything at all. “ Do not ever speak badly about your colleagues/peers to others. It reflects poorly on you if you do it and can burn needed bridges within your organization. You can disagree but communicate it directly to the person you don’t agree with.

• Own It – Don’t pass the buck. No one likes to be blamed for problems and shifting the blame doesn’t win you fans.
  
  
• Share Credit – Success in partnerships comes from collaboration. Everyone gets the credit for wins. Success is always a joint effort. If everyone feels part of the success, it can create positive energy going forward.
  
• Know Their Wants – Good partners understand what the needs, goals and concerns are of the people with whom they work on a regular basis. What keeps them up at night? What are their strengths? What frustrates them? What do you expect from them? What do they expect from you (and your department)?

If you can become an advocate for your colleagues, you can add value as they pursue their goals. Don’t doubt for one minute that being a valuable internal partner won’t reflect well on you and your employees. You can extend the reach of your employees and create powerful alliances that serve the organization.

Nationally recognized consultant, trainer, author and professional speaker Joni Daniels is Principal of Daniels & Associates, a management consulting practice that specializes in developing people in the areas of leadership and management, interpersonal effectiveness and efficiency, skill- building, and organizational development interventions. With over 30 years of experience, she is a sought after resource for Fortune 500 clients, professional organizations, higher education, media outlets and business publications. Joni can be reached at http://jonidaniels.com