Commanders give orders first and seek approval of their ideas later. Collaborators seek approval of their ideas first and reach a consensus on orders.

Sure, commanding may be more efficient. But you risk leaving your subjects unappreciated, making mistakes through myopic perspective, and unhinging your decision-making credibility.

Want someone to do something for you? Outline your perspective and proposed course of action to collect feedback first. Do not make demands, executive decisions, or boss people around. Ask for and value the other person’s opinion. You’d be surprised how many people are inspired through collaboration and end up doing what you would have ordered them to do in the first place. All it takes is an open mind and a little respect.