Decision-Making for Managers: The Fallacy of Consensus

Many leaders believe that it's important for them to get agreement from others before making a decision. Yet this consensus-focused approach often results in delayed projects, diluted ideas, and teams that only appear aligned on the surface.In this episode, Ramona Shaw examines how the pursuit of consensus, while well-intentioned, can actually hinder team performance and decision-making. She shares practical insights from her work with startups and established organizations where consensus-seeking had unexpected consequences and what to do instead.Ramona explores:- The natural appeal of consensus and why it feels right- What really happens in meetings when everyone seems to agree- The connection between consensus and conflict avoidance- A clear framework for when to seek agreement - and when not toIf you believe that a group of people with diverse perspectives makes for a better team, then aiming for actual consensus is a misdirected effort.If this resonates with you, then check out our latest episode of The Manager Track podcast HERE.Or watch it on YouTube HERE.Reflective Questions:- When has seeking agreement slowed down an important project?- What decisions could have been made faster without full consensus?- How often do team discussions end in safe but uninspiring compromises?- Does quick agreement in meetings reflect true alignment or something else?— RESOURCES MENTIONED —- Check out the Complete Guide: Building Effective New Managers- Learn how to turn your 1-on-1 meetings from time wasters, awkward moments, status updates, or non-existent into your most important and valuable meeting with your directs all week. Access the course and resources here: ramonashaw.com/11- Have a question or topic you'd like Ramona to address on a future episode? Fill out this form to submit it for her review: https://ramonashaw.com/ama- Schedule a strategy call with Ramona HERE. — OTHER EPISODES YOU MIGHT LIKE —- Episode 74 - How My APS Method Helps (New) Managers Succeed- Episode 155 - 4 Insights from Running a New Manager Training Program— WHAT’S NEXT? —Learn more about our leadership development programs, coaching and workshops at archova.org.Grab your copy of Ramona's best-selling book 'The Confident & Competent New Manager: How to Rapidly Rise to Success in Your First Leadership Role': amzn.to/3TuOdcPIf this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram Stories, and tag me @ramona.shaw.leadership or DM me on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/ramona-shawAre you in your first manager role and don't want to mess it up? Watch our FREE Masterclass and discover the 4 shifts to become a leader people love to work for: www.archova.org/masterclassLove the podcast and haven’t left a review yet? All you have to do is go to ramonashaw.com/itunes and give your honest review. Thanks for your support of this show!* Disclaimer: Shownotes may contain affiliate links. That means that I am awarded a small commission for purchases made through them, at no added cost to you.* Disclaimer: Shownotes may contain affiliate links. That means that I am awarded a small commission for purchases made through them, at no added cost to you.