When creating a working agreement, it is essential to ensure that it is comprehensive, clear, and actionable. A working agreement is a document that outlines the expectations, roles, and responsibilities of each team member and sets the tone for collaboration and communication within the team. It can also be used to establish guidelines for decision-making, conflict resolution, and problem-solving. Here are some things to consider when creating a successful working agreement:
1. Define the purpose and goals of the working agreement
Start by defining the purpose of the working agreement. Why is it necessary, and what do you hope to achieve with it? This will help you determine the key elements that should be included in the agreement. You should also define the goals that you want to accomplish, such as increasing productivity, improving communication, or enhancing teamwork.
2. Include clear and measurable expectations
The working agreement should outline clear expectations for each team member, including their roles and responsibilities. This should be done in a way that is measurable, so that everyone can track their progress and know when they have met their goals. This will also help to avoid misunderstandings and ensure that everyone is on the same page.
3. Establish guidelines for communication and collaboration
Effective communication and collaboration are critical to the success of any project. The working agreement should establish guidelines for how team members should communicate with each other, including the channels to be used and the frequency of communication. It should also outline how team members should collaborate, such as sharing information and resources, resolving conflicts, and making decisions.
4. Clarify the decision-making process
The working agreement should also clarify the process for making decisions within the team. This includes who has the final say on important issues and how decisions should be made in a timely and effective manner. This will help to avoid ambiguity and ensure that everyone is aligned with the decision-making process.
5. Define the consequences of not adhering to the agreement
Finally, it is essential to define the consequences of not adhering to the working agreement. This can include penalties such as reduced compensation, loss of privileges, or even termination. By establishing consequences upfront, team members will know what is expected of them and what will happen if they fail to meet those expectations.
In conclusion, a successful working agreement is a critical component of effective teamwork. It should be comprehensive, clear, and actionable, defining the purpose, goals, expectations, collaboration guidelines, decision-making process, and consequences for non-adherence. By creating a robust and thorough working agreement, you can increase productivity, improve communication, and enhance teamwork.
