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Unlike top management at Enron, exemplary leaders reward…

“Unlike top management at Enron, exemplary leaders reward dissent. They encourage it. They understand that, whatever momentary discomfort they experience as a result of being told they might be wrong, it is more than offset by the fact that the information will help them make better decisions.” quote by Warren G. Bennis
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“Unlike top management at Enron, exemplary leaders reward dissent. They encourage it. They understand that, whatever momentary discomfort they experience as a result of being told they might be wrong, it is more than offset by the fact that the information will help them make better decisions.”

Warren G. Bennis

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Great leaders encourage dissent because short discomfort is outweighed by better decisions from diverse input

In simple terms: Leaders reward dissent despite short-term discomfort for better decision making

Key Takeaway

Embrace dissent to improve outcomes

Themes

leadership decision-making dissent culture

Mood

inspirational analytical

Type

leadership organizational

When to use this quote

  • team meetings
  • strategic planning
  • innovation sessions

Key Concepts

psychological safety organizational learning critical thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can leaders balance dissent with cohesion?
  • What structures support healthy disagreement?
A Different Perspective

Dissent can create conflict and slow consensus

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