What the Heck Does Collaborative Management Really Mean?

Several years ago a large library system suddenly found it necessary to hire six senior managers, all at once. Ken participated in their interview process. Nineteen times in a row candidates described their management styles as “collaborative.” Collaborative styles of management are desired and expected both by employers and by staff, but what does it truly mean to be collaborative? Why is it desirable? Ken (who would also describe his own style as collaborative) will speak about the characteristics of a truly collaborative workplace as well as the positive outcomes from using such a management style – both in terms of focused work performance, pride, and job enjoyment.

Roberts, K. (2009). What the heck does collaborative management really mean? Retrieved on June 19, 2009 from http://apla2009.ca/index.php/program/details/16-Ken%20Roberts

Ken Roberts, former CLA President and CEO of Hamilton Public Library, opens this session with the following quote: "Leadership is ultimately about creating a way for people to contribute to making something extraordinary happen". Mr. Roberts explores the evolution of management from its traditional hierarchical beginnings to today's more collaborative team-centered environment. He argues that organizations must be dynamic (willing/able to change) in order to be successful and that collaborative management allows organizations to move forward.

Mr. Roberts highlights the following points as traits of a positive collaborative organizational culture:

• Internal communication processes that work
• Values that are truly understood by everyone
• Decision making processes that are transparent
• Positive staff perceptions of the organization: " A great place to work"
• Supportive work environment where staff are encouraged to take risks and failure is not considered something to be punished.
• Staff who are encouraged to "think outside the box"
• A work environment that incorporates both fun and enjoyment.

In closing, Mr. Roberts asserts that a collaborative approach to management facilitates the following positive outcomes:

• Leadership that encourages staff to make decisions
• Staff who know what authority they possess
• Staff who are willing to take risks and try new things
• A workplace that is characterized by curiousity, and
• Staff interest in the success of the entire organization - rather than personal silos