Before greenlighting a cross-departmental project, calculate the "collaboration premium." Subtract the costs of coordination and the opportunity costs of other work from the projected returns. If the number is negative, it’s better to work independently. 4. Become a "Connector" Leader
Herminia Ibarra and Morten Hansen describe the most effective C-suite executives as "collaborative leaders" who don't just manage down—they manage across. HBR's 10 Must Reads On Collaboration
Don't avoid conflict; integrate it. Establish clear methods for resolving disputes at the point of disagreement so they don't escalate into "political" battles. 2. Master the "Biology" of Leadership Become a "Connector" Leader Herminia Ibarra and Morten
Morten Hansen’s research highlights a critical warning: internal collaboration can be "bad" for your company if the costs outweigh the benefits. These leaders act as bridges
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These leaders act as bridges, connecting ideas and people outside their organization to those inside. They model collaborative behavior at the top, showing that "loosening control" actually allows for greater innovation. Where to Find the Book