The Art of Collaboration: Lessons from a Conversation with Author Priscilla McKinney based on
her book, Collaboration is the New Competition
At The Sphere Northampton, we understand that collaboration is at the heart of innovation and community building. Recently, we had the privilege of discussing the power of collaboration with Priscilla McKinney, author of Collaboration is the New Competition. Her insights challenged us to rethink how we approach relationships, leadership, and teamwork. And her direct and real personality really made us feel like we were talking to a friend.
Here are five key lessons we took away from our conversation:
1. Active Listening Creates Space for Collaboration
One of the hardest lessons in collaboration is mastering the art of listening (I found it’s one of the hardest lessons for most humans!). Priscilla reminded us that true collaboration begins with active listening—pausing our inner narratives to hear and understand others fully. Sometimes, this requires intentional “anchors,” like a tactile reminder, to stop and formulate meaningful questions. Her suggestion? Try disarming patterns with questions like, “What kept you up at night the last time you couldn’t sleep?” It’s a simple yet powerful way to connect. And when someone answers, really listen.
2. Celebrate Individual Strengths Without Apology
Priscilla’s unapologetic embrace of her own identity as a “talkative connector” inspired us. In collaboration, authenticity disarms and builds trust. Whether you’re outgoing or reserved, owning your strengths is key. And if you’re unsure how to start a conversation, Priscilla recommends a pattern interrupter like, “What do you think I should ask you?” This approach fosters honesty and mutual respect. And allows the person you are talking to ownership of the conversation topic.
3. Reframe Power Dynamics with Questions
Power dynamics often complicate collaboration, especially in hierarchical settings. Priscilla suggests leveling the field by asking, “What do you think I’m bringing to the table?” This not only opens dialogue but also acknowledges others’ contributions and puts the perceived “leader” in a listening position. Acknowledging strengths in the room allows everyone to co-create a narrative of shared purpose.
4. Mentorship Must Be a Two-Way Street
Priscilla emphasizes that collaboration works best when both parties have something to gain AND something to lose. The relationship should be mutual whether it’s mentorship, partnerships, or team efforts. If one party isn’t receiving value, the collaboration becomes ineffective. Small wins, even in short-term partnerships, can have a lasting impact.
5. Kindness and Small Gestures Matter
Small acts of kindness in business and community leadership often lead to unexpected opportunities. Priscilla reminded us never to make value judgments about others’ potential. “It’s never the one you think,” she said, encouraging us to embrace every interaction as a chance for meaningful collaboration. Over time, these small moments compound into something powerful. We had a great example in the Sphere Innovation Lab coworking space the other day. A professional who had dropped in for coffee needed to print a copy of a contract. When we wouldn’t let her pay for the printing, she immediately whipped out her phone and posted a shout-out on Linkedin (she has a vast network!). This small gesture felt like a meaningful collaboration (and the start of something great). It’s also a great example of something that Priscilla wrote about in her book: ABH (Always Be Helpful).
The Takeaway
Collaboration isn’t about sacrificing autonomy or expecting perfection. It doesn’t have to be big, grand, or deep. It’s about building authentic, reciprocal relationships where everyone has something to contribute. As Priscilla says, “Bad news and good news: You can’t do it alone.” By fostering a culture of listening, authenticity, and mutual investment, we can create communities where collaboration thrives.
Ready to collaborate? Join us at The Sphere Northampton, where we believe that together, we can build something extraordinary. And we are working every day to do just that!
Ways to collaborate:
- Shop the Map: A Guided Shopping Crawl of Women and Nonbinary Owned Businesses (RSVP)
- Cookies and Conversation: This is NOT Your Normal Networking Event (RSVP)
- Out with the Artist: The inaugural event is on December 15th and features Florence artist Robin Griffith (drop on in)
- Office Hours: December’s theme is wellness and these happen every 2nd and 4th Wednesday and are open to all (drop on in)
- Coffee and Conversation: Join a peer group for conversations about the professional to the personal! These happen the 2nd Friday of every month and are open to all (drop on in)
- Join the online community (no cost)
- Join the coworking space community (prices vary)
