LPM3: Module 4: Build Team Relationship

Bismillah.

Assalamualaikum Wr. Wb.

*Cough*cough* please excuse the spiderwebs in my blog. Have not touch it since the last module we had way before fasting month. *feather-dusting it away*

Alhamdulillah, we resume our LPM 3, learning more on building team relationship with Sofi Hasan who just came back from maternity leave.

In this module, there are three essence of how we can achieve good and conducive work relationship.
Firstly, we participate in networks, then develop team cohesiveness and lastly resolve conflict within team.

Networking. In my eyes, I see nerve wrecking.I'm not saying that I'm reclusive and never had I a problem striking a conversation. Trust me, I asked for a guy's number on the MRT on my way back from work before - that was few years back though :) 

It just that I have to make extra efforts in a conversation in formal situation especially. While talking to someone whom I just met, in my head I'll think of:

1) "Is this topic mundane/relevant/appropriate?"
2) "Do I have something stuck between my teeth?"
3) "Make eye contact and smile"
4) "Seriously, I ate chili chicken just now, I need to check my teeth"
5) "Oops, eye contact and mona lisa smile"

Well, basically.

Nevertheless, I definitely know that networking is important. I try to widen my circle as big as I can. From healthy networking, I can get new great ideas and information.

Last month, it was announced that my company will rebrand itself. Hence I was tasked to make necessary changes.It was hard work and lots of communication within a month (and coming more). Furthermore, my manager would like to have gifts for our clients with our new logo. So I had to contact few suppliers and asked for quotation.

Imagine if I have no basic communication and networking skills, I don't think I can ever do my research and accomplish my tasks.

Being a leader, these secret to success of networking must be shared among team members. Make them responsible for their roles and get them to participate in team.

Do a Competency Matrix to assign the correct individual according to their expertise.Then, delegate the tasks in RASCI table.

Example Competency Matrix:

Example of RASCI table:

A tip for all and not only leader, when you are asked a question and you don't have a clue to the answer, DO NOT say "I don't know". Try to be more proactive by checking first before answering. It shows that you take interest in your job and have initiative.

A leader should support team by conducting meetings or organizing team building activities. Yay for free holidays paid by company! Malay say, sambil selam, minum air. haha!

Use the right channels and techniques. Respect the diversity and close gaps between members. Should there are conflicts, resolve it quickly so it doesn't extend and become harder to dissolve.

In my previous job, there was a person who loves to domineer (always right) and craves for our superiors' attention. Unfortunately someone I had to work closely with.

One fine day, I received an unpleasant email from her. Although it was rude and hurtful, I thought she had a bad day but...... it continued for days and my manager was in the cc list. Sadly the manager didn't react and resolve it.

Although we made peace between ourselves (not easy at first), I'd prefer our manager to step in and assist in this issue. At least she knows that she has no right to use harsh tone towards others.

Experience learnt: Resolving conflicts can be challenging; tackle it in right manner.

Well, that's it for my journal. Toodles!

Cik Kiah