Building Cross-functional Working Relationships
(This came to me from a VP of HR - Steve)
Our company has had a very traditional hierarchy over time. Most communication, decision-making, and interactions happen from the top down. It hasn't worked and isn't sustainable.
When I've tried to build relationships across functions and departments, I've had limited success. Are there any good examples of how we could start building these?
I'd love to hear book, blog, or podcast suggestions. If you know a company that made the switch from a top/down organization into a more collaborative one, I'd like to connect with them as well.
Thanks for any feedback or insight you can share.
1 reply
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A Practical Tool to Strengthen Culture and Engagement
I wanted to share a simple, practical tool that supports what you champion every day in HR :
Stronger communication, healthier culture, and real employee connection. It’s called the "Leadership Game Experience".
In just 90 minutes, people from different departments come together around the table to improve communication by playing the game. It’s a fun, interactive experience that creates a space for people to think, reflect, and connect, without the pressure of a traditional training setting.
What stands out is how quickly it helps teams open up honest conversations, recognize strengths, and become aware of blind spots. It gives leaders and employees a chance to listen differently and better understand one another, something we know is often missing in busy organizations.
From an HR perspective, it directly supports:
• Stronger communication across teams
• Increased engagement and morale
• Greater trust and collaboration
• Awareness of leadership behaviors and team dynamics
• A culture where people feel heard, valued, and connectedIt’s a simple way to bring people together and start meaningful change, without overcomplicating the process.
I would love to show you what this experience looks like and get your perspective on how it could support the organizations you serve.
Appreciate all you do for the HR community, Steve. I look forward to meeting you in person next week.
Warm regards,
Blanca Criner
Maxwell Certified Consultant, Speaker, Coach & Trainer
Pronto ONE & Associates