I've picked up The Wizard of Ads again. I tend to read four or five books at a time, my interest piqued by whatever is happening with clients or in my life, in general. I also find myself on a trend away from business management books. I am reading related, but not specifically, business management books.
This morning, I read page 110, "Management by Consensus." Roy H. Williams reminds us that most organizations, when trying to make decisions, seek consensus from the management group. The reality about this process? It causes analysis paralysis. Since we can't agree on a solution, we'll continue to collect data, analyze data, and "maybe" a solution will eventually emerge. Yuck.
Williams says that a President, CEO or manager who won't make a decision without consensus from his or her management group, is looking for a way to "share responsibility for failure." He uses an Abraham Lincoln story to illustrate an effective approach.
Lincoln asked his entire cabinet for feedback about an issue. They were unanimous in their opposition to the item under discussion. After listening carefully to them, Lincoln thanked them for their input and then, he passed the measure. According to Williams, "Lincoln sought the input of his team leaders, not their approval." Sometimes, this makes sense, but you bet your company on its outcome.
I love this story.
Wizard of Ads
Warmly,
Susan
1:26:07 PM
Input, Not Approval 
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