1. Clear Communication
- Set Expectations: Regularly communicate with your job share partner to establish and manage expectations regarding workload, responsibilities, and deadlines.
- Document Everything: Use shared tools and platforms to document tasks, updates, and important communications. This ensures continuity and clarity for both partners.
- Regular Check-Ins: Schedule consistent meetings to discuss progress, challenges, and any changes in priorities. This helps maintain alignment and prevents misunderstandings.
2. Defined Roles and Responsibilities
- Split Duties Logically: Divide tasks based on strengths, expertise, and interests to maximise efficiency and job satisfaction.
- Create a Shared Calendar: Use a shared calendar to keep track of each partner’s schedule, ensuring that important tasks and deadlines are visible to both.
- Mutual Accountability: Hold each other accountable for meeting deadlines and maintaining the quality of work, fostering a sense of joint ownership and responsibility.
3. Strong Support from Management
- Obtain Buy-In: Ensure that your manager and team support the job share arrangement and understand its benefits.
- Provide Feedback: Regularly seek feedback from your manager and colleagues to identify areas for improvement and address any concerns promptly.
- Access to Resources: Make sure both job share partners have access to the same resources, tools, and training opportunities to perform their roles effectively.
4. Seamless Handovers
- Detailed Handover Notes: Write comprehensive handover notes at the end of each shift to update your partner on completed tasks, ongoing projects, and upcoming priorities.
- Overlapping Time: If possible, schedule some overlapping hours or have a brief handover meeting to discuss critical issues and ensure a smooth transition.
- Consistent Processes: Establish standardised processes for handling tasks and projects to maintain consistency and avoid duplication of work.
5. Flexibility and Adaptability
- Be Open to Change: Be willing to adjust your working style and approach based on feedback and the evolving needs of the role.
- Support Each Other: Be prepared to step in and help your partner during busy periods or when unforeseen issues arise.
- Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and refine the job share arrangement to enhance efficiency, address challenges, and improve collaboration.