Embracing Divisive Meetings and Ensuring Every Voice Counts

In a collaborative business setting, gathering a diverse set of opinions is key to achieving high performing decision-making that fosters business growth. When perspectives from every participant are considered and valued, meetings become not just platforms for discussion but arenas for innovation and inclusivity.

A focus on inclusion during decision-making has a multitude of benefits for both businesses and individuals. For example, benefits to the business include:

• Well-considered conclusions: All angles, perspectives, experience, and expertise are considered.
• Breakthrough solutions: Creative solutions and innovations are unlocked.
• Risk mitigation: Critical factors or blind spots are less likely to be overlooked leading to fewer risks and increased compliance with legal and ethical standards.

Similarly, personal benefits for those involved in the decision-making process include:

• Stakeholder buy-in: Greater commitment and accountability from each person increases the likelihood of successful implementation.
• Enhanced team dynamics: Inclusion, collaboration, trust, and empathy increase which helps individuals know they are valued and respected.

• Personal growth: Participants gain opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Strategies to Foster Openness and Inclusion

Despite the benefits of inclusive meetings, many people are hesitant to share their opinions. Some people fear being judged, criticized, or rejected. Others may feel intimidated or overlooked in a hierarchical company or where dominant personalities prevail. Additionally, cultural or organizational norms may prevent people from sharing. Creating an environment where every person feels comfortable sharing their opinions requires deliberate effort and thoughtful facilitation.

In our team meetings and strategy workshops, we employ a number of different techniques to foster the sharing of diverse and sometimes divisive opinions. For example:

• Give people permission and effective language to express a different point of view. We’ve even created a printed visual that many of our colleagues post at their desk and purposefully reference during meetings. You're welcome to download and print our version if you like!

• Set clear expectations with everyone so they know all viewpoints are valued.
• Actively seek out contributions from quieter individuals.
• Structure meetings to include designated time for open discussion where everyone has an opportunity to speak uninterrupted.
• Consider techniques like round-robins or small-group discussions to allow for more equitable participation.
• Provide anonymous feedback mechanisms to empower people who aren’t yet ready to share publicly.

Inclusive meetings aren’t simply about ensuring fairness. They are about leveraging the collective wisdom and creativity of every participant. By actively including diverse perspectives, businesses can make more informed decisions, foster innovation, and cultivate a culture of respect and collaboration.

The Illumina team is always seeking out credible, respected, and impactful companies to help us improve our work practices. As an expert we trust, we invite you to have a look at the courses and certifications that ICA Associates offers . I've personally taken several courses with them, including Focused Conversation Method, Group Facilitation Methods, Meetings that Work, and Transformational Strategy. Each one has been really helpful. I’m sure they’ll inspire you learn and grow your business, interpersonal, and leadership skills.