1. Overview

Individuals with Collaborating skills are at their best when interacting with other people. They are understanding and empathetic people who focus on forming strong relationships and rapport with people around them. They are also considered the go-to mediators of teams because of their ability identify with a diverse range of personalities and their knack for resolving conflict. In one moment, they could be the high-energy, cheerleaders, encouraging their team on; while in the next, they could be compassionate caregivers, helping people through their struggles.

2. Capabilities

Each individual skill set has its own unique strong suits. Some people may have a finely honed skill through past training and experience; others’ may be more nascent. This list of capabilities is our understanding of the Collaborating skill based upon extensive research and interviews.

• Empathy – Collaborating individuals get right to the heart of any challenge, and that lies in the subjective viewpoints of the human element. While others might seek to assess the empirical issues, a Collaborator will reframe the issue in a human-centric way. They are very observant and accepting of the varied interests represented by a diverse team. They thrive in this setting because their talents are innately appreciated by team members who might feel overlooked or misunderstood. A Collaborating individual is everyone’s ally, because they process the experience of others as if they are experiencing it themselves. They are at home in people-centric and social settings, and their diplomacy has a significant positive impact on their peers.
• Nurturing – Collaborators are collectively the most likable, relatable skill set, and others are drawn to their big personalities. They are generous with all of their resources — time, energy, knowledge, and experience. They genuinely wish to serve other people and encourage them while building genuine relationships. Collaborating individuals are patient and want to resolve conflict to make others feel comfortable in both professional and social settings. They prioritize connection with other people, and do the work of maintaining relationships by staying connected and engaged with others. They follow social cues and favor empathy over judgement.
• Living in the Moment – Part of the Collaborating skill set’s appeal is their carefree approach to life. They do not plan ahead and are willing to go along with a plan with no details or direction. They make decisions as they go without considering choices or obstacles that may derail their plans. They are always present in the moment and are fun, magnetic personalities. This carefree spontaneity allows others to come along for the ride, as there are no definite plans to interrupt. They are adaptable and roll with the punches.
• Original – Collaborators’ high energy presence always makes an impact, and part of the reason they are so likable is that they are open books. They share all of their ideas, no matter how outlandish, because they are adept at abstract thinking. They think about objects, principles, and ideas that are not physically present. A Collaborator compares apples to orangutans. They are popular because they say and do things that others don’t think of. They experiment with new styles and always stand out in a crowd.