Different is Not Difficult: Working Better Together Through Strengths

Collaboration is essential in higher education, yet differences in communication styles, priorities, and ways of working often create friction across teams. This session reframes common collaboration challenges through a strengths-based lens, helping staff understand that differences are not problems to fix, but assets to leverage. Participants will explore how unrecognized strengths can contribute to common team challenges, including those reflected in the Five Dysfunctions of a Team. Through practical examples and interactive reflection, attendees will learn how to build trust, engage in healthy conflict, strengthen commitment, and work more effectively toward shared results. Staff will leave with practical tools to adapt their collaboration style, improve communication, and work better together across roles and departments.