“The Collaboration Economy: How to Meet Business, Social, and Environmental Needs and Gain Competitive Advantage” by futurist Eric Lowitt offers a unique model for long-term collaboration among the public, private and civil sectors. With a clear focus on aligning business growth with sustainable development, the book focuses on prosperity for all.
What lessons are in it for all of us?
Be humble. The best leaders display humility and focus on their teams and partners, rather than themselves. They are grateful, not arrogant. This is collaboration at its best.
Think long term. Successful CEOs aren’t just focused on this month or this year—they know how to strategically think for the long term, crafting goals designed to elevate their companies for decades to come. It also helps to be patient—success does not happen instantly but requires time, fortitude, change and dedication.
Remember your mission. Rather than taking your position at work or in life for granted, view it as a privilege, while always keeping your organizational mission, vision and purpose in mind. This also supports ongoing and successful collaboration.
Partner up. We are always stronger together than we are alone. Partnerships and collaborations are essential to successful enterprises. Expand your network and expand the possibilities.
What keeps you up at night? Stay focused on the competition, on the next phase and on change. When you get complacent, business tends to suffer. Encourage employees to contribute new ideas and welcome constructive criticism as a form of collaboration.
Leadership requires commitment and collaboration. The most effective organizations find a way to work together, to challenge the status quo and engage the collaboration economy for long-term success.
