Hire People Who Disagree with You
It’s only human nature to be firmly attached to your own opinions, but that’s not
always the best way to manage. In fact, it almost never is. The opinions and
perspectives of your coworkers and others may be an invaluable resource—yet it
is often one that is undervalued and overlooked.
Diversity of thought won’t always make it easier for you to make decisions.
In fact, by pointing out possible pitfalls and gray areas, others may complicate
certain decisions that initially seemed like no- brainers. But this practice will
absolutely have a real positive impact on morale because everyone appreciates it
when their opinions are sought, listened to, and valued.
WHAT IT MEANS: As a manager, you can gain the benefit of soliciting
multiple viewpoints only if you actively and regularly send the signals that you
welcome such feedback. Otherwise, people will be understandably reluctant to
disagree. Ask people directly what they think of a particular strategy or proposal—
and be sensitive to the fact that your feedback is more likely to be frank and
uninhibited if it’s sought in a one-on-one setting.
ACTION PLAN: Always make it a point to thank people who share their
insights. And make it clear to everyone that they should always feel free to “weigh
in” on a pending project or business decision if they have something to add to
the discussion.
EVEN BETTER: Seeking input from people outside your immediate
work group will help you to make smarter decisions, so be especially aggressive in
seeking it out. Contact people you don’t deal with on a regular basis and get their
thoughts—great advice often comes from the most surprising places.
