Majority Versus Consensus - Which Works Better And Why
If you are tasked with leading or commanding a team, and a group decision is called for under the circumstances (i.e., strategic planning meetings, special meetings of the board of directors, advisory sessions with your "kitchen cabinet" of advisors and experts), you must reach a decision through a discussion followed by a vote.
In voting, a majority just means the approval of the holders of greater than fifty percent of the voting interests or persons present. Consensus means a unanimous vote carved out of brainstorming, head butting, compromise and careful crafting of the precise wording of the motion or decision to be decided upon. Consensus is generally more time-consuming and requires more wrangling, wrestling and effort to reach -- but it also means that the decision made will reflect the voice of every voting person. Unanimity is very powerful in bonding a team to itself (internally) and to the matter at issue (externally, decision by decision). Consensus requires compromise while majority usually does not.
A true consensus works better than a majority because all of the voting participants have "bought in" to the team decision. A majority, while deemed adequate to proceed along a certain path based upon a decision, leaves some participants "out in the cold" and more inclined to hamper progress or to sabotage the efforts of the majority. Frankly speaking, a majority victory leaves potential enemies in an angered, agitated or defeated state, while a consensus is the result of a true joint effort.
If you'd like to proceed along your path to achievement with the combined, cooperative and consolidated efforts of the entire team, unanimity by consensus is the surest method to keep from deviating from your master plan.
Always work toward a consensus. Always work toward compromised but all-inclusive unanimity in voting on important issues.
In closing, one of the earmarks of a great team leader is in his or her ability to moderate any topical discussions toward a consensus before a vote takes place.
Douglas E. Castle For Taking Command!
TAKING COMMAND! ACHIEVING YOUR OBJECTIVES.
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