One versus Many

There is a limit to what one person can do working in isolation. A limit to what can be observed, strategized, executed on. Multiple sets of eyes, ears, and hands capture more information, adds more perspective, offers a wider range of solutions and a faster way to execute the plan.

But simply having available warm bodies does not deliver this multiplier effect. Getting the benefit of the group means handling them with care and respect and including them in the process regardless of their position. People offer the greatest contributions when they feel recognized and appreciated without fear of harsh judgment even when they are not successful or “right.”

In order for others to offer their best contributions, you need to start with you. Your behaviors are constantly being observed and you are being judged. So be careful what you do and how you handle others, as your actions form the foundation of what others expect from you and will determine the level to which others are comfortable contributing to your efforts and sharing their ideas and perspectives with you.

Everything you do counts: your body mannerisms while others are talking, your expressions, your choice of words, the way you listen, if you cut people off or let them speak, if you roll your eyes, tap your foot or check your phone while others are talking to you, etc…it all adds up in a big way. This can add up to a big positive or a big negative.

Despite your best efforts to do all the right things, some still choose not to come forward with ideas, whether because they are uncomfortable with change, they don’t agree with your path or because they are apprehensive in offering their input, so be prepared to reach out ask for their perspective and suggestions. Do it privately if they are averse to the being in the limelight or if you suspect they will be confrontational or overly negative.

Receiving input with a thoughtful response, without judgment, will go a long way in creating an environment of contribution and positive change. At the least, it can help warm bodies move over to the actively contributing side. For others, it can help chip away at a status-quo position of “no”, “can’t do it” and “that won’t work.” Ultimately, things will be best when you can inspire all those who are involved to join the quest for better understanding so that issues can be solved, problems fixed and the best path forward identified and accomplished. This can even avert disasters from occurring, as others will come forward proactively before small issues become big problems.

So if your goal is to create the best solutions attainable within time and cost constraints, you can’t get there as a “one-person show.” You need the help of others to move things forward better and faster.

Teamwork is the answer and it all starts with you. Of course, you have to be ok with letting go of full control (you never had it anyway). Most importantly, handle others with care, and create an environment where people feel comfortable coming forward with input and ideas and give them some space to see their ideas through (with your oversight as needed to keep things on track).  Not easy but definitely worth it.