Introducing ‘The Way We Work Together’
How we work together matters. It shapes how we experience our jobs, how we support each other, and how we deliver for the people of Argyll and Bute.
This month, we are introducing a set of shared statements that set out the way we want to work together as a council.
The statements were developed by the Chief Officers Group and focus on the behaviours that help us work well together, especially during times of change.
The Way We Work Together Information Pack
Managers’ Way We Work Together Resources
What is ‘The Way We Work Together’?
The Way We Work Together is a set of simple statements that describe the culture we want to build across the council.
They focus on everyday behaviours – how we treat each other, how we work in teams, and how we support each other through change.
The statements sit at the heart of our culture and support our wider vision and priorities. Together, they describe the culture we want to see across our organisation:
I am proud to be part of a team helping Argyll and Bute to thrive
This statement is about making a point of seeing and recognising the difference we are making and feeling proud of a job well done.
I feel heard and I listen to others
This statement is about us all drawing on each others’ knowledge and expertise and listening to each other.
I feel valued and I respect the work of others
This statement is about is recognising that we bring together an impressive range of skills, experience and knowledge. We all make a difference.
I know my part to play and I help others to understand theirs
This statement is about recognising that part of working well as a team is for everyone to be clear on their own individual role and how that fits with others.
I am trusted to do and be my best and I empower others to do their best
This statement is about each one of us being able to make our best contribution and helping others to do the same.
I am resilient and I support others through change
This statement recognises the importance of supporting each other with change and being able to ask for support if you would like.
What does this mean in practice?
The statements are not new policies or processes. They are about how we work day-to-day.
For example, this might include:
- listening to different views and making space for everyone to contribute
- recognising the contribution of colleagues across services
- being clear about roles and priorities
- supporting each other during change
- creating a culture of trust, respect and teamwork
- drawing on support when you need it e.g. the employee assistance programme
How this will be used
You will start to see these statements reflected in different parts of your experience at the council, including:
- recruitment
- onboarding for new starters
- learning and development
- Quality Conversations
- AB Recognition
What happens next
We will continue to share more information over the coming months about how the Way We Work Together will be embedded in different areas of work.
Managers are already starting conversations with their teams, and everyone is encouraged to reflect on what this means for them.
Take a moment to think about:
- what good teamwork looks like for you
- what helps you feel supported and valued
- how you can contribute to the way we work together
The recently launched Communication Skills Toolkit, which will help you feel more confident and prepared when having conversations and discussions about the Way We Work Together, is now available on LEON.
If you have any questions or feedback, please contact:
workingtogether@argyll-bute.gov.uk