Meetings that go in circles or dance around decisions serve no one.
Some people speak up. Some don’t.
Tough things get discussed. Or they don’t.
Some people focus on issues. Some resort to personal attacks.
But a healthy debate, where friction is welcomed, and discussion is cultivated, helps everyone question assumptions, consider alternatives, and listen to other viewpoints.
Morten T. Hansen, author of “Great At Work” suggests these tactics for encouraging healthy debate in meetings:
Ask a question.Don’t state an opinion up front since that shuts down alternative thinking. Questions set the stage for investigation and help minds open up.
Don’t let the sharks rule. Create a safe place for new ideas by opening up with a “risky idea” and support those who try the same. Shut down ridicule by saying “I don’t want that kind of language here…”
Take the contrarian view. Get the opposing view out there to provoke thought and reaction. If the subject is raising prices, suggest the possibility and the implications of lowering them.
Dissect assumptions rigorously. We all have confirmation bias which means we go along with things we already think we know to be true. Take a hard look at fundamental assumptions.
Don’t shy away from friction.
Find ways to reveal it, encourage it, and use the energy from it to help your team make better decisions.
Have a great week.
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