Forming new relationships

The steps taken, by a leader, to foster a working relationship
When forced into a new relationship with colleagues, there are many steps to be taken along the path to fostering a relationship that sees no one person as the dominant figure. The steps can be defined and relate closely to the similarity of courting a beau. As an individual, one must assertain the degree to which they wish to contribute and the personality type they wish to portray within these relationships/groups in the workplace.
When placed in a group for a group assignment, much time is spent setting up the relationship with the other peolpe forced into this situation. There is much to-ing and fro-ing to firstly introduce oneself and enquire about the personal background of each person, as well as setting up compatible talking times. This is the "Getting to know you" stage.
One then can move onto the "Relating and being friends/or not" stage, where by the decision can be made as to whether you like the personality of the people you have met. These two stages may take a considerable amount of time and development of trust from each person. Within this stage a degree of caring and sharing can develop between the group members. Sympathy and empathy can develop and foster to help with trust building.
Now that you have built a rapport with your group you can begin to work cohesively. Each personality should be known, including limitations. Each persons leadership qualities, or lack of, will be shining through as will the committment level they portray be easily seen.
The "Check my personality" stage begins.As an individual within this group, you need to decide upon the leadership role you wish to take on. How are you going to potray yourself? How will decisions be made, autocratic, democratic or collaborative?
With all these important factors sorted, it becomes time to knuckle down and start on the project at hand, thus begins the "Let's get moving" stage. During this time, the initail 3 stages will be constantly revisited.
Oh, but wait! There's more!
One more person to add to the mix, coming in 2 weeks behind the completed stages.
Now come the many questions, What if she doesn't like what we've started? What if I can't appreciate her personality? Will she be willing to accept all that we have done and pick up from there? Will she comtribute, plus more, as she has been absent? Do I resent her for not being here in the beginning? Or more to the point...Can I continue to develop my qualities as a leader and continue the great role that I have undertaken within my group?
Keep watching this space as the story unfolds.