We have all been in meetings regarding several topics, where consensus has been reached, then in walks the ‘Manager’. The manager makes a comment or two, and what had been previously agreed, vaporizes like a cartoon talk bubble, ‘Poof’. It has been replaced by virtual ‘Like’ buttons from the participants. The manager speaks and they click the ‘like’ button. Gone are their ideas, creativity, and solutions, replaced by what the manager feels is the best course of action.
So why do people make these sudden shifts in positions? It is fear. Fear of going against a manager, fear of having to take responsibility for an idea, or fear due to a lack of belief in themselves or their idea. Keep in mind these are founded fears, many managers do not like nor promote those who do not agree with them. They are not interested in open discussions, just open validation of their ideas or points of view; press the ‘Like’ button. If we go ‘out on a limb’ with an idea, we could look back and only see saws, no one pressing the ‘Like’ button.
Companies and organizations should look to create a culture where creativity is not only encouraged, but it is also required. Managers should task their teams to think more about what could be and provide multiple solutions to any given problem or strategy. Once these are created, have an open discussion so the ‘Like’ button can be pressed for the BEST idea or strategy.