Why collaboration fails – even in skilled teams

You work in a team of highly educated professionals. You speak the same language (at least most of the time). You share common goals. 

So why do misunderstandings happen? 
Why does communication break down? 
And why does knowledge sharing feel harder than it should be? 

The short answer: because we expect different things from each other and most of those expectations are unspoken. 

According to cross-cultural advisor Mikkel Hougaard Orlovski, collaboration issues are rarely about lack of skill or effort. They’re about different ideas of how we work together. 

“Even in teams where everyone has the same education and expertise, we see the same patterns again and again,” Mikkel explains.

“Some people take initiative immediately. Others wait for more clarity. Some expect detailed instructions. Others assume they should figure it out themselves.” 

When these expectations aren’t aligned, frustration builds. Some team members feel like they’re carrying more weight. Others feel left out or uninformed. 

Knowledge sharing – or strategic silence? 

In many workplaces, knowledge is seen as a shared resource. You offer your insights freely, because that’s how the team moves forward. 

But that’s not universal. In other contexts, knowledge is a form of currency. You share it strategically, at the right time, with the right people. Not because you’re unwilling to collaborate – but because that’s how careers move forward. 

When these two logics meet, mistrust can grow. Some colleagues expect open sharing. Others are playing by a different set of rules. 

Communication styles – direct or filtered? 

Communication is another common source of friction. In some work cultures, being direct and clear is seen as respectful and efficient. The priority is to share your thoughts as they are – without too much filtering. 

In other cultures, communication is context-sensitive; What you say depends on who you’re speaking to, your relationship, and the situation. Words are chosen carefully to maintain harmony, respect hierarchy, or avoid conflict. 

These different styles can lead to misunderstandings. Direct feedback might feel too blunt. Indirect comments might feel evasive. 

So, what can you do? 

Mikkel highlights 5 key steps that help teams work better across cultures: 

1. Talk about expectations early

Don’t assume everyone shares the same approach to collaboration. Make space to discuss how you want to work together – especially at the start of projects. 

2. Build trust before focusing on tasks

In some teams, trust grows from working together. In others, trust comes before Take time for informal conversations – over coffee, lunch or small talk before meetings. These moments build the foundation for better teamwork. 

3. Make sure everyone has a voice

Not everyone takes the floor spontaneously. Some need an invitation. Use small groups, ask direct questions, or invite written input to make sure all perspectives are heard. 

4. Recognise different approaches to knowledge sharing

Be aware that some colleagues may hesitate to share ideas too early. Ask how contributions will be used – and make sure credit is given where it’s due. 

5. Stay curious

When something feels unfamiliar or frustrating, don’t jump to conclusions. Ask yourself: Could this be a different way of working? Stay open, and the answers will often surprise you. 

Shared goals aren’t enough

Even in teams with shared goals and strong expertise, collaboration can falter when unspoken assumptions get in the way. By making expectations visible, building trust intentionally, and staying open to different ways of working, teams can avoid the silent friction that holds them back. Effective collaboration isn’t just about what we do – it’s about how we understand each other.