4. Great ideas gain consensus on the back end
So how do you know if you have a truly great idea?
Watch and see if people buy in on the other side of the launch.
What should happen is that as your idea gains steam, more and more people buy in until, on the other side of the launch, you have success.
The principle? Look for consensus on the back side of change, not the front side.
If no one buys into your idea over time, you probably have a bad idea.
Here are some ideas to get you started if you’re handling a divisive, innovative idea:
Don’t ask the team for agreement, just get permission.
Listen to people, but follow your gut.
If you’re wrong, take full responsibility.
When it emerges that you were right, be humble and invite others on the journey.
Ask yourself this
I realize these ideas are controversial. I realize acting on them might get you fired.
But would you rather look back in 30 years with regret at how many great ideas were anesthetized by a visionless committee or group?
Or…would you rather look back and be satisfied that you did everything in your power to bring about change, even if it got you in trouble?
Of course, the third option might be that you successfully ushered in the change that changed everything. But I’d even settle for trying, failing and getting in trouble.
This is not an excuse to be a jerk, but it is permission to be courageous.
So today, don’t look for consensus. Instead, be courageous.
What are your frustrations about consensus?
