Understand Your Silos

Do you find that within your organization, it feels like different groups of people are speaking different languages? And that when you get together for a meeting – even about something simple – that misunderstandings and defensiveness occur?

In the last few months, one word has come up in every new client meeting I have been in – “silos”. Every organization has reported that they’re feeling too siloed, and that departments (or even individuals) are isolated from others.

This week’s tip:

Map out your organization’s silos. As much as you’re able, take half an hour to sit down with a blank piece of paper and map out the different silos that you see in your organization. If you have an Org Chart, this may be helpful, but you may find that your silos don’t match that entirely.

This mapping isn’t meant to be a fix in itself. But bringing awareness to the silos brings it from the subconscious to the conscious, and can help you be more intentional in your interactions. (You can learn more about how to fix workplace silos, and contact us for help tailored to your organization.)

Try this out, and let us know how it goes! We’d love to hear from you!

Published by Ian Jackson

Ian Jackson is the founder of Building Bridges Leadership, which works with individuals, teams, and organizations to create authentic community in the workplace. He also writes children's fiction and teaches creative writing.

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