You send a Slack message—no response. 

You walk into the break room—conversations pause.

At meetings, your ideas seem to float into the void.

If you’ve ever felt invisible at work, there’s a way to change that…

Today’s Ladder:

Collaboration Problems and How to Improve It

Working well with others is essential for success, yet it’s something many professionals struggle with.

According to a 2021 survey, 65% of workers reported conflict with coworkers. 

Common causes? 

Stress, lack of teamwork, and communication issues.

The good news? 

Most of these challenges are fixable.

Here’s why you might be struggling to connect with coworkers and what to do about it:

1. Different Work Styles Cause Friction

Everyone approaches work differently.

Some are detail-oriented, while others are big-picture thinkers. Clashes often happen when we don’t understand or respect these differences.

How to Fix It:
Take a work styles assessment to identify your own tendencies and encourage your team to do the same.

Use this as a starting point for conversations about how to collaborate effectively.

2. Fear of Conflict Holds You Back

Conflict is inevitable in any workplace.

Avoiding it only leads to resentment, making teamwork even harder.

How to Fix It:
Learn your conflict style and ask coworkers to do the same. Use this shared understanding to approach disagreements openly and constructively.

Healthy conflict leads to better problem-solving and stronger relationships.

3. Communication Styles Clash

Effective communication isn’t one-size-fits-all. People communicate differently—some are direct, while others are more reserved. Failing to adapt can create misunderstandings.

How to Fix It:
Identify your communication style and learn about others.

Practice adjusting your tone and approach to match the situation or coworker. Communication training can also boost your confidence and skills.

4. Lack of Boundaries Causes Burnout

Saying yes to everything might seem helpful, but it often leads to burnout and passive-aggressive behavior.

Boundaries aren’t just healthy—they’re necessary.

How to Fix It:
Start small by setting boundaries in low-stakes situations.

Practice saying no respectfully and managing expectations. Over time, this builds trust and healthier working relationships.

Takeaway:

Keys to Better Collaboration

If you’re not working well with others, it’ll affect your 3 R’s:

• Results

• Reputation

• Relationships 

Maybe it’s because of miscommunication, unmet expectations, or even personality clashes.

Now, this might sting, but it’s the truth:

The issue might not be just with other people—it might also be in how you approach collaboration.

The good news?

It’s fixable, and it starts with awareness.

Imagine building connections that make teamwork easier, more effective, and even enjoyable.

When you learn to adapt your style, clarify expectations, and approach others with empathy, everything changes.

You’ll not only improve relationships but also gain the trust and respect of your peers, making you the go-to person for big opportunities.

If you’re tired of the tension, start small: identify one relationship at work that could use improvement.

Ask yourself…

“What’s one thing I can do differently to make this collaboration better?”

Taking the first step isn’t just about fixing issues—it’s about building stronger, more rewarding connections.

ICYMI: Links to recent issues

😎 What Happy Professionals Know That You Don’t (Yet)

✋ 5 Outdated Career Advice That Could Be Holding You Back

💵 Scared to Negotiate Your Salary? Here’s How to Get What You Deserve

I appreciate your feedback! It will help shape the future issues of CAREER LADDER!

If you’re curious why I want you to succeed in half the time, here’s why.

To your success,

Dr. Lex ✍️

Let’s Connect!

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