Your team is split on a risky strategy. How do you unite them towards a common goal?

2 Assess Risks

Once you've gathered your team's input, it's time to objectively evaluate the risks associated with the strategy. This involves a thorough analysis of potential outcomes, both positive and negative. Present your findings to the team in a clear and concise manner, ensuring that everyone understands the implications. This step is crucial for demystifying the risks and transforming abstract concerns into concrete data that can be collectively assessed. It's about turning fear of the unknown into an informed discussion about known variables.

3 Align Objectives

Alignment of objectives is essential for moving forward. Ensure that all team members are clear about the overarching goals of the organization and how the proposed strategy aligns with these objectives. This may require revisiting the company's mission and vision statements and discussing how the risky strategy can potentially serve them. Highlighting the bigger picture can often provide perspective and motivate individuals to think beyond their personal reservations.

4 Build Consensus

Building consensus doesn't mean achieving unanimous agreement but rather reaching a point where all team members can support the decision, even if they have reservations. This involves compromise and negotiation. Present the strategy as a collective effort, emphasizing the role each team member will play in its execution. Show how their contributions are vital and how their concerns have been addressed in the planning process. The aim is to foster a sense of ownership and shared responsibility.

5 Create Contingencies

One way to alleviate concerns about risk is to develop contingency plans. These are "Plan B" strategies that can be implemented if the original plan doesn't go as expected. Work with your team to identify potential pitfalls and brainstorm alternatives. This not only provides a safety net but also shows your team that you're taking their concerns seriously and are prepared for various outcomes. Having contingencies in place can unite the team by providing assurance that risks are being managed proactively.

6 Execute Together

Finally, the execution phase is where your team's commitment is put to the test. It's important to maintain open lines of communication and provide support where needed. Celebrate small wins along the way and address any issues promptly as a team. Execution is not just about following through with the plan but also about reinforcing unity and collaboration. When your team sees that they are in this together, it strengthens their commitment to the strategy and the collective goal.