Let’s talk about the "elephants in the room". Those tough, unspoken issues that can weigh on a team.
Whether it's product quality concerns, interpersonal conflicts, or a misalignment of values and behaviour, ignoring these elephants can lead to strained relationships, unproductive meetings, and long-term performance issues.
Leaders often work hard to create open environments, but even the best teams have topics that feel too sensitive to bring up.
Spotting the Elephants
Elephants leave clues: meetings with quick consensus, lack of debate, or uneven participation. Even if you don’t see these signs, it's safe to assume there are unspoken thoughts within your team.
Fear, self-doubt, or uncertainty often keep people silent. If left unchecked, these elephants multiply.
Addressing the Elephant
Here’s the good news: elephants may be big, but they're approachable. Start by naming the issue directly. This might feel uncomfortable at first but is often transformative. Teams tend to rally together once the conversation begins.
Use active listening and curiosity: phrases like "Help me understand" or "Tell me more" can go a long way. Encourage openness by thanking those who speak up - both publicly and privately.
Keep the Herd in Check
Modelling transparency as a leader sets the tone for your team. Regularly check in during meetings or one-on-ones to uncover hidden concerns.
Ask direct questions like, "What’s been on your mind?" or acknowledge tension in the room with statements like, "I sense we’re avoiding something - what does everyone think?"
Build a Culture of Openness
When you tackle elephants head-on, your team learns that speaking up is safe and productive. While some issues may escape notice, proactively addressing them reduces their power and fosters trust.
Keep talking, listening, and engaging - it's how you turn those elephants into opportunities for growth.
