Commitment, Not Consensus

Ever had a frustration as a leader in trying to bring a group to consensus on something? Ever tried to bring a group to complete agreement on a decision, plan, or agenda?

It's quite common for most of us to have stories to share here. Truth is, it's difficult to bring a group to any agreement most of the time.

So, what's the solution? Well, most of the solutions are in the leader's capacity to guide a group through to a solution. There are various methodologies to bring a group to a solution. I will not be addressing those methodologies here.

What I would like to discuss is the principle behind this... the principle that it's always more about commitment than consensus.

How often are we more concerned about consensus as we lead a group through something? How much more effective would we be if commitment were our driving principle in guiding to a solution?

Our goal as leaders and our goal team members is to reach toward the objective set before us. That objective will inevitably have personal perspectives and nuances that influence us all to a different level. We, as leaders, have the responsibility to set those presuppositions and emotions aside and work toward a solution that best for the goal, team, and those influenced.

Once our objective is in place then our ability to reach that goal are more easily attainable.

So, what's so different about commitment over consensus? Consensus will leave you paralyzed, inconsistent, and ineffective. Commitment is tangible and moves you toward goals quicker.

This is simple to use. Start by setting the right expectations with your group(s) then move forward by setting in your mind what commitment looks like. Form in your mind what commitment looks like and guide the group to that goal, and not consensus.

Challenge: Try using this principle in solution finding and see how much more effective you before in leading people.

Respond: Have you ever had an experience that was stifled by consensus? Have you ever seen commitment work as a strategy? Tell us about it...