How can executive teams ensure alignment on even the smallest details?

Small gaps between executives in a team can lead to significant issues. These gaps can grow into larger divisions when they reach employees, causing confusion, misalignment, and potential conflict. It can also lead to a lack of clarity in decision-making and a decrease in commitment among team members. Ultimately, these gaps can undermine the effectiveness of the team and the organization as a whole.

Achieving consensus is not the primary goal of conflict within a team because the main aim is to foster commitment through buy-in and clarity in decision-making. Conflict allows for open and honest discussions where everyone's opinions are heard and considered. This process helps team members feel valued and more likely to support the group's decision, even if they initially disagreed. The goal is to make clear decisions, even in situations of high ambiguity, and ensure alignment among all team members, down to the smallest details.