“To effectively communicate, we must realize that we are all different in the way we perceive the world and use this understanding as a guide to our communication with others.”
– Anthony Robbins
Hi Everyone,
Communication plays a crucial role in interdisciplinary work, as it helps team members share their ideas, perspectives, and knowledge with each other. However, communication also has a power dimension that can impact the way team members interact with each other and influence the outcome of the project. In this essay, I will explore the relationship between communication and power when working in an interdisciplinary model.
First, it is important to define what is meant by power in this context. Power can be defined as the ability to influence the behavior of others, to get things done, and to achieve the team’s goals. Power can be based on various factors, such as knowledge, expertise, status, position, resources, and relationships. In interdisciplinary work, power can be distributed in different ways among team members, depending on their respective backgrounds, skills, and roles.
Communication is a key factor in how power is distributed and used in interdisciplinary work. Effective communication allows team members to share their ideas and perspectives, clarify their roles and responsibilities, and coordinate their actions. Communication also enables team members to build trust and rapport with each other, which can enhance their collaboration and performance. However, communication can also be used to exercise power over others, intentionally or unintentionally. For example, team members who are more skilled or knowledgeable in a particular area may dominate the conversation and assert their views, while others may feel marginalized or silenced. Similarly, team members who hold positions of authority or control resources may use their power to influence the decisions or actions of others.
One way in which communication can affect power dynamics in interdisciplinary work is through language use. Language is not neutral, and the way we use language can reflect and reinforce power relations. For example, using technical jargon or academic language can signal expertise and status, and may be intimidating or exclusionary for those who are not familiar with it. Therefore, it is important for team members to be mindful of their language use and to strive for clarity, inclusivity, and respect in their communication.
Another way in which communication can affect power dynamics in interdisciplinary work is through nonverbal cues. Although most of our meetings are on Teams, nonverbal cues, such as body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions, can convey emotions, attitudes, and intentions, and can influence how team members perceive each other and respond to each other’s messages. For example, a team member who speaks confidently and assertively may be perceived as more powerful than a team member who speaks hesitantly or apologetically. Similarly, a team member who maintains eye contact and nods attentively may be perceived as more engaged and respectful than a team member who avoids eye contact or appears distracted. Therefore, it is important for team members to be aware of their nonverbal cues and to use them in a way that fosters positive and constructive communication.
Communication and power are tools to be used in service of our clients and the quality of our product. Interdisciplinary teams favor collaboration over hierarchy; the essential definition of a successful team is the use of effective communication in support of collaboration and decision-making. The Desk of Brad last week outlined examples of communication patterns designed to destroy an organization, consolidate power to individuals, and insist on hierarchical communication. Our challenge as an organization is to ensure that we find the balance in our team, placing our clients first and our egos second. If you are not seeking to bring out the best in your team and teammates, then you are missing the genius behind the interdisciplinary approach to work.
Two of our core values, “We believe in the marketplace of ideas” and “We hire people who are Smart and Happy” are foundational interdisciplinary work. Create a positive collaborative environment where ideas thrive and then focus on putting the client first and delivering amazing work.
Let’s go be great!
Brad