Controlled dissension should be welcomed. Commitment is a must once the leader decides to put his foot down on the next steps forward, though. Nothing can ever be perfect, but this ideology should be articulated as such. You either swim together or sink together!
From Netflix:
After a decision is made, we expect everyone, including the people who argued for a different approach, to disagree then commit. This helps ensure the outcome is as successful as possible. Afterwards, when the impact is clear, the informed captain should reflect on their choices — what worked and what didn’t — so everyone can learn how to do better next time.
The memo highlights a crucial aspect of decision-making and leadership that founders can greatly benefit from understanding and implementing in their startups. Here are some key lessons founders should learn from this memo:
1. Commitment to Decisions: Once a decision is made, it is essential for everyone involved, including those who initially disagreed, to commit to the chosen path. This collective commitment ensures that the team works cohesively towards the same goal, maximizing the chances of success. It fosters a culture of unity and purpose, which is vital for any startup aiming to navigate the challenges of growth and competition.
2. Reflective Leadership: The memo emphasizes the importance of reflection after the implementation of a decision. Founders should take time to evaluate the outcomes of their decisions, identifying what worked well and what didn’t. This reflective practice not only helps in learning from mistakes but also in replicating successes. It encourages a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability, which are key traits for thriving in the dynamic startup environment.
3. Learning from Experience: By reflecting on the impact of decisions, founders and their teams can gather valuable insights that contribute to personal and organizational growth. This learning process is crucial for developing better strategies and making more informed decisions in the future. It also empowers team members by involving them in the learning process, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability.
4. Encouraging Diverse Perspectives: The memo implicitly acknowledges the value of diverse perspectives in decision-making. While it is important to commit to a decision once made, the process leading up to that decision should involve open discussions and consideration of different viewpoints. This approach not only enriches the decision-making process but also prepares the team to fully support the final decision, knowing that their opinions were heard and considered.