Small change: inject new voices

In many teams, people end up falling into familiar roles. Faced with challenge, the team jester brings humour to bear; the dissenter plays ‘devil’s advocate’; the pragmatist tries to get things moving.

Such roles can become so well rehearsed that teams become blind to the value that individuals are trying to add. People stop taking the joker seriously, despite the fact that her jokes signpost important truths. The dissenter becomes the boy who cried wolf. The pragmatist’s suggestions are met with a shrug, and a statement to the effect of ‘we’ll get going when we’re ready’.

Consider your team. Which role(s) do you find yourself playing over and over again? What about those around you? Might it be time to change the tune?

Something to consider: is it time for a new voice?

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