Disagreement and Dissent: The Fuel of Innovation
In the bustling corridors of corporate offices in Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad and Dhaka, a common dilemma often plagues brand managers, field sales managers, and occasionally even executive directors and CEOs. This predicament, though frequently encountered, remains a source of considerable anxiety. What is this pervasive issue?
It is the challenge of expressing disagreement with one’s superior.
The fear is palpable: “How do I convey my differing opinion to my boss without them perceiving it as a challenge to their wisdom or an act against the organization’s interests? The repercussions could be severe; I might face reprimand or, worse, termination.”
Contributory dissent refers to the practice of expressing differing opinions or disagreements in a manner that contributes positively to the discussion and decision-making process. It allows individuals and groups to voice their differences in a way that aims to achieve a constructive outcome without undermining leadership or group.
I recall reading an article in February 2023 from Mckinsey authored by Ben Fletcher et al titled “Into All Problem-Solving, A Little Dissent Must Fall”. It says: “In today’s interconnected business environment, companies won’t be able to solve problems effectively without encouraging “contributory dissent”— a healthy approach to gathering diverse perspectives that should be taught to team members, modeled by leaders, and supported by culture.”
Contributory dissent is a constructive form of disagreement where individuals express differing viewpoints with the intention of improving outcomes or decision-making processes. This approach encourages team members to voice alternative ideas, challenge assumptions, and offer critiques in a way that contributes positively to the overall goals.
Contributory dissent is considered a healthy approach to gathering different, dissimilar and disparate views. But why do I say it is healthy and beneficial for the brand or the organization? I have seven reasons for this.
1. Contributory dissent enhances problem-solving. By incorporating different viewpoints, teams can identify potential blind spots and develop more comprehensive solutions.
2. This improves decision-making. Considering a range of perspectives helps avoid groupthink and leads to more informed and balanced decisions.
3. Contributory dissent fosters innovation. Diverse ideas and constructive challenges can spark creativity and lead to innovative approaches.
4. It can increase engagement. When team members feel their opinions are valued, they are more likely to be engaged and committed to the group’s objectives.
5. Risk management is better. Different views and opinions can help identify potential risks or unintended consequences that might otherwise be overlooked.
6. Surprisingly, contributory dissent can strengthen relationships within the team. When handled respectfully. Constructive disagreement can build trust and mutual understanding.
7. The brand or the corporate can show continuous improvement. Regular, constructive feedback helps organizations adapt and evolve more effectively.
To implement contributory dissent efficiently, it’s important to create an environment where diverse opinions are welcomed, respected, and carefully considered. This requires the boss or the entrepreneur to have a growth mindset. A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence of employees can be developed through continuous learning and actively listening to opposing views.
This approach of contributory dissent stands in contrast to toxic or unproductive forms of dissent that may hinder progress or damage team cohesion.
Handling the founders of the organization
Handling dissent in an organization run by a single entrepreneur who views differing opinions as challenges to their authority can be challenging. This situation is not uncommon, especially in smaller or newer companies where the founder’s vision and leadership are deeply intertwined with the organization’s identity.
Here are some strategies to navigate this delicate situation.
Frame suggestions as enhancements, not criticisms
Present your ideas as ways to build upon the entrepreneur’s vision rather than as alternatives or corrections. Use language like “To further strengthen your approach…” or “Building on your innovative idea…”
Liberally use data and external examples
Support your viewpoints with objective data, market research, or case studies from successful companies. This can make the suggestion feel less personal and more about industry best practices.
Be sure that your opinion aligns with company goals
Clearly connect your suggestions to the organization’s stated objectives or the entrepreneur’s known priorities. Show how your idea supports their vision.
Choose the right time and the right place
Offer suggestions in private settings rather than in group meetings. This can help avoid any perceived public challenge to the entrepreneur’s authority.
You can build trust only over time
Consistently demonstrate your commitment to the company’s success. As trust builds, the entrepreneur may become more open to your input.
Use the “Yes, and…” approach
Acknowledge the value in the entrepreneur’s ideas before adding your own. This technique from improvisational theater can make your contributions feel more collaborative. (Improvisational theater is a form of theater where most or all of what is performed is unplanned or unscripted, created spontaneously by the performers. This relies heavily on the actors’ creativity and ability to think on their feet, often incorporating audience suggestions to shape the dialogue, action, story, and characters in real-time.)
Show curiosity. Ask questions instead of making statements
Frame your ideas as questions that invite the entrepreneur to think through scenarios. For example, “Have we considered how this approach might impact our long-term customer retention?”
Find allies for your views
If there are other respected figures in the organization who share your concerns, consider approaching the entrepreneur together or having them voice similar ideas.
Understand the entrepreneur’s perspective
Try to empathize with why they might be resistant to differing views. This understanding can help you tailor your approach.
Be prepared to leave
If after all your efforts the environment remains hostile to any form of constructive feedback, consider whether it aligns with your professional growth and values.
Remember – changing an entrepreneur’s mindset, the founders mindset – about dissent is often a gradual process. Patience and consistent, respectful communication are key. If the situation doesn’t improve over time, you may need to evaluate whether the organization’s culture aligns with your professional needs and values.
In conclusion, contributory dissent is an essential practice for fostering a culture of innovation and effective problem-solving within a brand management team or an organization. By encouraging diverse perspectives and open dialogue, contributory dissent allows teams to explore a wider range of solutions and make more informed decisions. This approach not only enhances creativity but also strengthens group cohesion by ensuring that all voices are heard and valued. Leaders play a crucial role in modeling and promoting this behavior, creating an environment where psychological safety and robust debate are integral to the decision-making process.
Ultimately, embracing contributory dissent leads to a more dynamic and resilient brand or an organization, capable of navigating complex challenges and seizing new opportunities. By prioritizing this healthy approach to gathering diverse perspectives, companies can drive sustainable growth and maintain a competitive edge in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.