Your team is divided on a decision. How do you ensure everyone feels heard and valued?

As a leader you need to adjust your listening to match the culture of the organization. If your organization has a poor psychological safety culture, you may need to listen for what they are not saying and probe with deeper questions to gain understanding.

By genuinely focusing on what each person says, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting back what you hear, you demonstrate that their input is important. This practice not only builds trust but also encourages more open and honest communication, fostering a collaborative environment where everyone feels respected and understood.

As a leader, you can facilitate a discussion within the group to go though the decision. It may be a good thing that the team is divided in its decision, which means there are multiple perspectives at play. So, by discussing those perspectives, the team has an opportunity to take a well-informed decision. It's important to clarify the purpose of the discussion at the outset- that it is to find a way forward. Define an exit criteria or desired outcome of the meeting. Get people to share their inputs and acknowledge them. Weigh each perspective based on how well it aligns with those expected results. That way, people are clear on what's right. Even if their points aren't taken onboard, it's nothing personal.

Create an environment where team members feel safe to express their views without fear of judgment by actively inviting their input and valuing their perspectives. Encourage honest communication by showing empathy and respect, and assure them that their thoughts are integral to the team's success.

By genuinely understanding and relating to the feelings and perspectives of others, a leader can bridge gaps and foster unity. Empathetic leaders validate differing viewpoints, create a supportive environment, and guide the team towards a collaborative resolution, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued. This approach not only resolves conflicts more effectively but also strengthens team cohesion and trust.

As a leader, you are there in support of the teams within your org. This may mean that during a deadline project where the team is doing the final push you are there to support by: making photocopies, bringing coffee etc. whatever it takes to show the team that you are there with them.

Providing guidance, resources, and encouragement helps team members navigate conflicts and find common ground. By being present and available, you demonstrate commitment to their well-being and show that you value their contributions, which fosters a sense of security and collaboration, even in the face of disagreement.

When it comes to decisions, expectations for the team need to be well established. 1. They need to know that they don't all need to agree, but they need to make the decision that is best for the organization. 2. They also need to know who the ultimate decision making authority in the room is. 3. If the team cannot come to a decision consensus, the decision making authority will make it based on the information provided by the team.

Seeking consensus is crucial for ensuring everyone feels heard and valued when a team is divided on a decision. By engaging in open discussions and working towards a common agreement, you validate each team member's perspective and foster a collaborative atmosphere. This process not only helps in reaching a decision that reflects the collective input but also strengthens team cohesion and commitment by demonstrating that every voice has been considered in the final outcome.