Back in 2000, I read a book called “The Tipping Point” by Malcolm Gladwell. You can get an overview here, but the basic concept is that, “ideas and products and messages and behaviors spread like viruses do.” He goes on to describe the agents of change that drive these shifts. Like many, the book resonated with me, and gave me a different view on the way we work.
Gladwell’s most recent book discusses the dynamics of a team. As I’ve discovered through years of partnering with others, throwing together a “dream team” comprised of the very most talented individuals doesn’t always translate to peak performance. How those individuals complement each other and work together is the difference. He claims that the recipe for success lies in the proportions. Gladwell calls it, “The Magic Third.”
The idea is that just adding one person who brings a certain perspective is not enough to make a change. This person could still feel singled out and perhaps reticent to share his or her ideas. The strength comes in numbers. When three or more people with similar diversities are in the group, they are more likely to share their perspective and make a real impact. For Gladwell, this applies not only to women, age groups or minorities, but also intellectual diversities. In short, adding more people with varying perspectives to a team gives everyone a voice.
Beyond all this, I have learned (the hard way at times) that the group still needs some soft coaching to ensure each voice is heard and respected. Patience is often a key factor, as it takes time to “gel.”
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