In opening the current semester with the Eastern Institute of Technology students who I am presently teaching, I set the “classroom cultural canvas” in the following ways.
Firstly, I advise that every student in the class will have a unique perception in relation to the issues/ topics that we will be discussing throughout the semester. We are all individuals, each of us is unique, and we each see the world in a unique way…and most importantly the views/ opinions that each of us contribute to classroom discussion will be regarded as being equally valid in the case of each person.
Secondly, I advise that when anyone in the class offers a view/ opinion and someone else wants to speak in relation to that offering, then this person examines/ challenges the “idea” offered by the initial spokesperson…and doesn’t challenge the individual/ person. Students are already learning how this approach to classroom discussions minimises conflict and enables ideas to be ellaborated on without causing offence to others. This is the beginning of the journey of becoming a “pragmatist”, and avoiding going down the path of being motivated by political (self-serving) agendas.
Thirdly, I advise that all contributions made by students to class discussions will not be filtered in terms of them being either “right” or “wrong”. Rather, all contributions will be gratefully received, and the person providing the input will be treated with respect and courtesy.
In the adult work environment it should be no different. Each person is an individual – with a unique perception of reality and most certainly possessing valid views and valuable contributions. The art/ skill of an effective leader is to encourage people who they work with (alongside) to be forthcoming with their valuable contributions/ insights/ ideas so that the given organisation can benefit from these injections of fresh thinking/ varying perspectives.
As a leader, if you want to encourage the best to be contributed from the people who work with you then concentrate on setting a “cultural platform/ environment” first and foremost. If you achieve this, I think you’ll be pleasantly suprised how your workplace culture sustains breeding: idea contributions from stakeholders, open and honest communications and productivity…ongoing.