Issue #4:The Triangulation Phenomenon, Should I bother?

In the ecosystem of teams and organizations, effective communication serves as the lifeblood, fueling productivity, innovation, and collaboration. Yet, amidst the daily dynamics, a subtle yet pernicious phenomenon often rears its head: triangulation. This phenomenon manifests when individuals circumvent direct communication channels, opting instead to relay feedback, concerns, or directives through intermediaries. This indirect approach, while seemingly innocuous, can sow seeds of mistrust, breed toxicity, and hinder team cohesion.

Triangulation finds its roots in various contexts, from subtle office politics to entrenched organizational cultures. One common scenario unfolds when an individual sidesteps confronting a colleague directly about an issue, choosing instead to confide in another team member. This bypass not only undermines transparency but also erodes trust between team members, fostering an environment where open dialogue becomes a casualty.

Another manifestation of triangulation occurs when managerial alignment falters, resulting in conflicting directives being relayed to subordinates. This leaves employees stranded in confusion, forced to navigate conflicting priorities without clarity or guidance. The repercussions reverberate beyond individual tasks, impacting morale, productivity, and ultimately, organizational performance. At the same time she usually is to blame for not performing or byfriending with the more easygoing manager and creating an innefective image to the other side.

So, how can teams stop triangulation vicious cycle and cultivate a culture of direct, transparent communication? Here are some actionable strategies:

1.???? Promote Psychological Safety: Cultivate an environment where team members feel safe to voice concerns, share feedback, and express differing viewpoints without fear of retribution.

2.???? Clarify Expectations: Ensure clarity in roles, responsibilities, and reporting structures. Ambiguity breeds confusion, providing fertile ground for triangulation to take root.

3.???? Encourage Direct Dialogue: Foster a culture where individuals are empowered and encouraged to address issues directly with the concerned parties. Provide training and resources on effective communication and conflict resolution to equip team members with the tools they need to navigate challenging conversations.

4.???? Lead by Example: Leaders play a pivotal role in shaping organizational culture. Model transparent communication, constructive feedback, and a willingness to address issues head-on.

5.???? Implement Feedback Mechanisms: Establish formal channels for providing feedback, such as regular performance reviews, anonymous suggestion boxes, or open-door policies. Encourage constructive feedback to flow freely, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

6.???? Facilitate Mediation: In cases where conflicts arise, provide opportunities for mediation or facilitated discussions to resolve issues amicably. A neutral third party can help navigate tensions and facilitate productive dialogue.

By dismantling the barriers to direct communication and fostering a culture of openness and transparency, teams can mitigate the damaging effects of triangulation. In doing so, they not only fortify relationships and trust but also unleash the collective potential of their members, propelling them towards shared goals and aspirations.