Communications Management | By Duncan Haughey | Read time minutes
Have you been in a meeting where the senior person takes over the agenda and dictates how they want every aspect of a project to run? I certainly have, and this is what I've termed the 'tell' manager. These managers aren't interested in what other people have to say. They've already decided what will happen.
Let's flip things.
Have you been in a meeting where the senior person sets the scene for a project and encourages an open and collaborative discussion? I've experienced this, too, and this is what I've termed the 'sell' manager. These managers are interested in what other people have to say. They're open-minded to the way things will happen.
Two different approaches—both get work done. Perhaps, but some methods are more effective than others. Let's look at the pros and cons of each style:
The Tell Manager
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Quick, no arguments | A narrow perspective from one person's point of view |
| Provides a clear direction | Ignores the input of other team members who may have more experience or expertise |
| Single person accountability | Can cause unhappiness or frustration in the team |
| Clear reporting line | Risks and issues may not be highlighted or disclosed |
If you 'tell', you send a message that you don't want other people's feedback, ideas, or input.
The Sell Manager
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Explores different options for delivering the project | Sometimes tricky to reach a consensus |
| Promotes buy-in and team cohesiveness | Time consuming |
| Taps into experience and expertise of the team | Lack of clarity |
| Highlights and explores risks and issues | Accountability is unclear |
If you 'sell', you send a message that ideas, feedback and an open discussion are welcome.
Do you tell people what to do, or do you work collaboratively with your team to sell your ideas?
I like to sell my ideas and work collaboratively with my team. Selling an idea feels better—and, for me, produces the best results.