Segment 10 (2022) Work Democratically

[Paul Terlemezian]

Working democratically in the business world may seem to be a contradiction to traditional leadership styles.

• How do we adapt and communicate rules with authenticity and vulnerability?
• How do we assure that we respect the rights of others with authenticity and vulnerability?
• How do we consent to rules when "things are not going our way?"
• How do we learn beyond self-interest?
• What are the best examples of checks and balances that you have experienced in the workplace?
• What other aspects related to working democratically are you curious about?

Humorists:

• Niall Ferguson (with appreciation to Alexandre Poulin)
• School Yard Rap

Panelists:

• Troy Buckholdt
• Larry Duckworth
• Pete Mastin
• Lisa McLeod
• Elkanah Reed

Moderators:

• Don Bolen
• Affan Chaudry

"Remarkable" Speakers/Listeners:

• Sunil Narang

[Pete Mastin]

Hi Paul - I would be happy to panel on this one. 

[Don Bolen]

Paul, by vulnerability, do you mean willing to accept the outcomes of a democratic process?

[Paul Terlemezian]

Yes -

How might an employee be perceived if a decision was good for the company, their peers, and their clients and yet the employee opposed the decision?

[Don Bolen]

It's a business decision and that employee would need to assess his/her alignment with the company, team and clients. Individuals must decide and that's based upon circumstances.

I remember when a company I worked moved from employer-paid health care to the "shared-cost" model. Some in my group complained that "We didn't get a vote!" My response was that you'll need to assess the impact and make a decision. Per The Clash -    https://youtu.be/xMaE6toi4mk

[Paul Terlemezian]

Terrific example and enjoyable link that reinforces the point you articulated - thank you!

[Paul Terlemezian]

From the Authors of "Learning as a Way of Leading:

Work democratically:

"...the power of all voices being heard...inviting others to add value...."

[Paul Terlemezian]

Each Monday, Wayne Hauenstein sends out an email with business wisdom inspired by sports related events over the previous week. I encourage you to contact Wayne to get on this distribution list. Here is a recent quote that is relevant to this topic:

“Mental toughness is doing what's right for the team when it's not the best thing for you.”
- Bill Belichick