If we go back to the underlying meaning, to “judge in advance”, it can only be both a positive and a negative judgment. Before every situation or interaction, we have a “prejudice” about how this particular situation will play out.

We often talk about prejudices around people we don’t really know, but I think we also have prejudices about the next meeting with those we actually know. And it can help us.

If we have built a positive relationship, we expect another positive encounter, and the chances increase significantly that there will be. In addition, if the person you meet is not “at the top” at this particular time, you will also be more forgiving and instead of pressing the faults, you will want to find ways to overcome them together.

If, on the other hand, you have a negative relationship, that you are not so fond of the person in question, then you will not be directly eager to help that “pucko” out of trouble.

I don’t think I need to tell you which setting works best in a group…

My absolute best tip for increasing collaboration skills – create more genuine, positive biases in your organization! And you do that by making sure that everyone highlights the positive sides of each other.

Do you think it sounds simple and obvious? Look out over the office, or the list of your recent chat messages. Pick one of the first three people to appear. Now think about the last time you told that person what is the best thing about them.

Maybe it won’t happen by itself, after all…?