The statement, “consensus is bunk” comes from someone with extensive quality training. I preached consensus for years as part of a good quality process. Unfortunately, I found it doesn’t work. Consensus says that we voted and seven out of ten people agree with something. The problem is that the other three are not on board, don’t actively support the decision, and may even undermine it.
Instead, seek alignment. Alignment increases exponentially when people feel they have been heard. Even if someone doesn’t agree with the outcome, they may align if they feel their perspective has been heard.
Too many times we pile drive the minority opinions like a WWE wrestler. As human beings, we all have that need to be heard. Respect that need. Recognize that there is something to be learned from those who may not agree. The process of dissenting opinions weighs significantly in Supreme Court rulings. If they can foster dissent, so can we.