There are times when the you will appreciate the consensus seeker… but it won’t be when you are pushing for a decision.
How to recognize Consensus Seekers:
- They call big meetings for small decisions
- They often avoid decisions
- They take votes
- They are risk averse
- They avoid taking a stand until they have solicited input from everyone
- They emphasize process over results
- They are slow to act
How to work with Consensus Seekers:
- Start the “sales” process WAY in advance of any deadlines
- Stress the risks of inaction
- Provide details and contingency plans
- Be prepared to scale ideas back in order to move forward more quickly
- Identify influencers and develop relationships with them
- Pre-sell the team before calling a meeting
Jason Seiden is Co-founder and CEO of Ajax Social Media, a training company that shows professionals how use social media to work more effectively.
I'm the CEO of Ajax Social Media. We're helping 1 million people shine by making their online stories better. 
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
While seeking consensus is generally considered a good thing, it can be very detrimental to organizations when that’s all the person does – seek consensus. The result is things just don’t get done…and the consensus seeking individual appears to lack leadership because “things just don’t get done.” Good post.
I think consensus seekers are too afraid to be decisive and are ill-prepared to stand by their own decisions. I’ve worked for these types of managers before and have experienced the feeling of wanting to scream, “Just make a decision!”
@Annette—Often, that is the case… though there can be other reasons for them wanting to bring everyone into the process, the net effect is often the frustration you felt. Eg, some European companies I’ve consulted for have overly complex matrix structures with decision making committees at the top—structures designed to force consensus building (or stymie challenges to the status quo, depending on your point of view). It can be a very difficult style to work with.