The power of perspective: how collaboration forges resilient teams

In today’s dynamic business landscape, building resilient teams is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. One key to achieving this lies in the power of perspective. By bringing together diverse viewpoints and fostering meaningful collaboration, organisations can unlock a wealth of insights and innovative solutions, equipping themselves to navigate challenges and emerge stronger. Enter Fredrik Apelberg, a boomerang employee who returned to Lorensbergs with a renewed appreciation for the transformative power of collaboration in building resilient teams.

What initially prompted your decision to leave the company 2.5 years ago? And what motivated your return?

My departure was driven by a dual passion: understanding complex change and harnessing the power of collaboration. I wanted an opportunity to fully immerse myself in facilitating change within an organisation for an extended period. This allowed me to delve deep and truly grasp the intricate dynamics of implementing change.

This experience wasn’t just about mastering change mechanics; it was a revelation about the transformative power of collaboration. Witnessing firsthand how diverse perspectives and collective thinking, fuelled by effective facilitation, could unlock innovative solutions and approaches, sparked a deep interest within me. Now, I am thrilled to be back at Lorensbergs, eager to build upon these learnings and apply them while working with a broader range of partners. My journey has solidified my belief that fostering and developing collaborations within an organisation, and leveraging the perspectives of many, is crucial for success in today’s dynamic landscape, particularly when it comes to building a resilient organisation.

You mention resilient organisations… but what exactly defines a resilient organisation?

Professor Stefan Tengblad, a renowned HR expert, offered an insightful definition during our recent ‘Arena’ event: Resilient organisations are those that can bounce back from challenges and maintain long-term viability, even if they emerge in a new form.

These organisations have the remarkable ability to thrive despite challenges and unforeseen circumstances. Cultivating resilience requires a balanced focus on three key areas: financial, technical, and social resources. Facilitation plays a crucial role in identifying early warning signs, leveraging diverse perspectives, and enabling quick responses to challenges. Organisations won’t always avoid crises, but resilient ones learn and adapt effectively.

What role do diverse perspectives and skillsets play in fostering a collaborative and resilient organisational culture?

Collaboration is at the heart of resilience, and diverse perspectives fuel it. Just like a challenging puzzle requires varied pieces, our teams need diverse viewpoints and skillsets to tackle complex challenges. Silos hinder resilience, while open communication and collective thinking across departments are key to thriving.

My experience highlights the importance of leveraging every voice, from production to leadership. By facilitating these dialogues and embracing diverse expertise, we can build awareness of vulnerabilities, identify early warning signs, and adapt to the unpredictable. Upskilling and resourcefulness are crucial, but collaboration unlocks their full potential. In short, diverse perspectives and a collaborative culture are the key to building a truly resilient organisation.

Remember, building resilience is an ongoing process. By consistently prioritising these actions and fostering a culture of collaboration and collective thinking, organisations can build the adaptability and strength needed to thrive in any environment.