How do you foster trust and collaboration in a star network?

A star network is a type of communication network in organizations where one central person or unit coordinates the flow of information and resources among other members. This can be an efficient way to manage complex tasks and diverse teams, but it also poses some challenges for trust and collaboration. How do you foster trust and collaboration in a star network? Here are some tips to help you succeed.

1 Communicate clearly and frequently

The central person or unit in a star network has a crucial role in communicating the goals, expectations, feedback, and support to the other members. You need to communicate clearly and frequently to avoid confusion, misunderstanding, and conflict. Use multiple channels and modes of communication, such as email, phone, video, chat, and face-to-face, to suit the preferences and needs of your team. Be transparent and honest about the progress, challenges, and changes in the project. Encourage questions, feedback, and suggestions from your team and acknowledge their contributions.

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Sarah Larson

Global Learning & Organizational Development Strategist | Driving Talent Management and Leadership Development
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One thing to watch out for, is communication preferences. Your preferences are likely different from your stakeholders. Therefore, I suggest: ✅ Discuss how each stakeholder would like to be updated, you can use formats such as DACI/RACI or simply ask. 💡 If there are too many stakeholders to consider, send out a transparent communication about how they’ll be updated and make sure this is in a place where everyone can access it at all times. Additionally, to encourage questions, feedback, and suggestions: 💡 Be transparent about how and when the feedback and additional insights provided will be/have been utilized. This will increase the likelihood for additional contributions.

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2 Delegate and empower

The central person or unit in a star network can also become a bottleneck or a micromanager if they try to control everything and do not delegate or empower the other members. You need to delegate and empower your team to take ownership of their tasks and decisions, and trust them to deliver quality work. Provide them with the resources, guidance, and autonomy they need to perform their roles. Recognize and reward their achievements and efforts. Avoid overloading yourself or your team with unnecessary work or information.

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3 Build relationships and rapport

The other members in a star network may feel isolated, disconnected, or competitive with each other if they do not have opportunities to build relationships and rapport. You need to build relationships and rapport with your team and facilitate their interactions with each other. Create a positive and supportive team culture and climate, where people respect, appreciate, and help each other. Organize regular team meetings, social events, and informal chats to foster communication, collaboration, and camaraderie. Celebrate successes and milestones as a team.

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Sarah M.

Sr. Tech Editor/Writer (Cybersecurity) | Google & IBM Certified | AI Development, Data Analytics, Blockchain, Prompt Engineering | Bridging Technology and Communication — Championing Insightful, Impact-Driven Content
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Two things I have found to be critical for relationship-building: 1.) Do what you say you will (or have a really good reason why you couldn't). It is important to not make promises that you cannot keep, or are unsure if you can keep. 2.) Follow-up when someone brings you an issue, idea, or anything else that cannot be addressed "on the spot". A lot of managers say they will do something, or look into something, and then never do it. In some cases, they will do something but, then fail to follow up, which inevitably leaves the employee feeling like their manager never did anything. Following up with people shows them that you heard them, and it shows that you took action; Both of which are important in management, and a relationship.

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4 Manage conflicts and challenges

The star network can also generate conflicts and challenges, such as power imbalances, role ambiguity, information overload, or resource scarcity. You need to manage conflicts and challenges proactively and constructively, and not ignore or avoid them. Address any issues or concerns that arise promptly and respectfully, and involve the relevant parties in finding solutions. Listen to different perspectives and opinions, and seek to understand and empathize with others. Negotiate and compromise when necessary, and focus on the common goals and interests of the team.

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5 Learn and adapt

The star network can also offer opportunities for learning and adaptation, as it exposes you and your team to diverse ideas, experiences, and feedback. You need to learn and adapt to the changing needs, expectations, and situations of the project and the team. Seek and provide constructive feedback, and use it to improve your performance and processes. Identify and leverage the strengths, skills, and knowledge of your team, and support their development and growth. Experiment with new approaches and methods, and embrace innovation and creativity.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How do you foster trust and collaboration in a star network?

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1 Communicate clearly and frequently

2 Delegate and empower

3 Build relationships and rapport

4 Manage conflicts and challenges

5 Learn and adapt

6 Here’s what else to consider

Organizational Communication

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