In today’s fast-paced, interconnected workplaces, collaboration isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s the foundation of success. Whether at the global, regional, or local level, strong collaboration fuels innovation, productivity, and employee satisfaction. For HR professionals, this presents a huge opportunity: by designing initiatives that encourage teamwork and knowledge sharing, HR can drive measurable impact across the organization.
Below are 10 actionable ideas HR can use to improve collaboration at every level.
1. Make Collaboration a Key Hiring Criterion
Recruitment is the first opportunity to build a collaborative culture. Beyond technical skills, prioritize candidates who demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and a willingness to work cross-functionally. Ask behavioral interview questions about teamwork, conflict resolution, and knowledge sharing to identify true collaborators.
2. Hire Individuals With Established Networks
Candidates who already have extensive (even international) networks bring valuable connections into the organization. These professionals often have a proven history of working across boundaries—helping your teams tap into external knowledge and best practices faster.
3. Consider Hiring Teams, Not Just Individuals
When possible, hire entire teams who have successfully worked together for years. Established teams typically demonstrate high trust, effective communication, and streamlined collaboration—making them productive from day one.
4. Invest in Collaboration Tools—and Lead by Example
Collaboration software like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or Yammer can bridge geographical and departmental gaps. But simply installing a tool isn’t enough—HR must lead the way by using these platforms actively in programs and projects, modeling the behavior they want to see.
5. Integrate Collaboration Into Training and Development
Make collaboration a central theme in all leadership and employee development programs. For example, start global leadership initiatives with a virtual teaming phase where participants work together on a strategic project before meeting in person. This encourages bonding, problem-solving, and cross-cultural understanding.
6. Map and Leverage Internal Networks
Use organizational network analysis to identify natural collaborators—those employees who already act as connectors. Strategically position them at key points in your internal network to amplify their influence and help knowledge flow more freely.
7. Recognize and Reward Collaborative Behavior
If you want more collaboration, reward it. Highlight employees and teams that excel at working across departments, sharing expertise, and supporting colleagues. Recognition—whether through bonuses, awards, or public acknowledgment—signals that collaboration matters as much as individual achievement.
8. Appoint Community Facilitators
Create or strengthen internal communities of practice. Community facilitators can organize discussions, share resources, and connect people with similar interests. This role helps sustain engagement and keeps information flowing within and between groups.
9. Reimagine the Role of HR Leadership
Consider renaming your top HR role from Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) to Chief Collaboration Officer (CCO). While symbolic, this change underscores the organization’s commitment to collaboration and positions HR as the steward of connectedness.
10. Engage Younger Generations
Millennials and Gen Z employees naturally embrace collaboration and inclusivity. Involve them in projects, process improvements, and cross-functional initiatives. Their digital fluency and fresh perspectives can help mentor senior colleagues on more collaborative ways of working.
The Bottom Line
Collaboration doesn’t happen by chance—it’s built intentionally through the right people, tools, incentives, and leadership. By applying these 10 ideas, HR can transform the organization into a thriving, interconnected workplace where innovation, engagement, and performance flourish.
