For many years I have worked with a highly successful entrepreneur who knows how to lead. His turnover is very low, and by all measures the productivity of his team is outstanding. One of the most remarkable qualities this man (George) possesses is the ability to build consensus and bring his team in to total alignment.
Last week, George was tossing around a business decision that he knew would affect the routine and schedule of his staff. In his monthly all-staff meeting this week, he introduced the idea to the 7 managers in the room. Six were in favor and one was not. George began asking questions to stir up the dialogue. In an atmosphere of mutual respect, they began expressing their thoughts and defending their positions. When one talked the others listened well. Throughout the conversation I could sense the positive energy and synergy. The one dissenting opinion was now enthusiastically in the positive column. Rather than digging in on his position, he listened and weighed the other positions and ideas. The team had all come together and displayed an eager attitude to move forward. They were all bought in and committed.
George demonstrated that valued leadership quality of gaining enthusiastic cooperation. Rather than simply give directives, he “let the game come to him.” Whenever appropriate and possible, we should do the same. It is an important step towards building a top-performing team.
