Oh hey,
So last weekend, I traded my zoom calls for textbooks as part of my psychotherapy training course. We spent the whole time talking about interrelationality - basically, how our relationships and interactions impact everything. And let me tell you, it was one of those weekends that kinda changes how you view the world.
Here’s the light bulb moment: as managers, we’re constantly engaging in these relationship dynamics with our teams, whether we realise it or not. And that’s where contracting comes in. No, not the legal stuff - we’re not drafting NDAs here. I’m talking about sitting down with your team members and getting super clear on what you expect from them, and just as importantly, what they expect from you.
Why contracting is important:
1. Clarity is everything: You don’t want your team guessing what you need from them. Contracting is all about setting clear expectations upfront - no confusion, no crossed wires. They know exactly what’s expected, and you know what they need from you to get there.
2. Collaboration boost: This isn’t about barking orders. It’s a mutual agreement on how you’ll work together. By collaborating on expectations, you’re setting the stage for better teamwork and fewer misunderstandings.
3. Real connection: This process isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s a chance to connect with your team, understand their working styles, and figure out how you can support them. It builds trust, and when people feel heard, magic happens.
So, when you work with your people, set out your contract together. What will you need from each other in terms of time, meetings, communication style and feedback and then what goals do you want to hit?
But wait - there’s more. Ever heard of recontracting? It’s a thing, and it’s a lifesaver. As your team’s goals shift, you need to revisit those agreements and tweak them to stay aligned. It’s like giving your working relationship a tune-up, making sure you’re still heading in the right direction.
So, if you haven’t already, take some time to contract (and recontract) with your team. It’s a game-changer for communication, collaboration, and connection - the very heart of a brilliant relationship.
As always, I really hope it helps!
Wishing you a wonderful week.
All my love,
Cate x
Oh hey,
So last weekend, I traded my zoom calls for textbooks as part of my psychotherapy training course. We spent the whole time talking about interrelationality - basically, how our relationships and interactions impact everything. And let me tell you, it was one of those weekends that kinda changes how you view the world.
Here’s the light bulb moment: as managers, we’re constantly engaging in these relationship dynamics with our teams, whether we realise it or not. And that’s where contracting comes in. No, not the legal stuff - we’re not drafting NDAs here. I’m talking about sitting down with your team members and getting super clear on what you expect from them, and just as importantly, what they expect from you.
Why contracting is important:
1. Clarity is everything: You don’t want your team guessing what you need from them. Contracting is all about setting clear expectations upfront - no confusion, no crossed wires. They know exactly what’s expected, and you know what they need from you to get there.
2. Collaboration boost: This isn’t about barking orders. It’s a mutual agreement on how you’ll work together. By collaborating on expectations, you’re setting the stage for better teamwork and fewer misunderstandings.
3. Real connection: This process isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s a chance to connect with your team, understand their working styles, and figure out how you can support them. It builds trust, and when people feel heard, magic happens.
So, when you work with your people, set out your contract together. What will you need from each other in terms of time, meetings, communication style and feedback and then what goals do you want to hit?
But wait - there’s more. Ever heard of recontracting? It’s a thing, and it’s a lifesaver. As your team’s goals shift, you need to revisit those agreements and tweak them to stay aligned. It’s like giving your working relationship a tune-up, making sure you’re still heading in the right direction.
So, if you haven’t already, take some time to contract (and recontract) with your team. It’s a game-changer for communication, collaboration, and connection - the very heart of a brilliant relationship.
As always, I really hope it helps!
Wishing you a wonderful week.
All my love,
Cate x
