Our journey through leadership pitfalls continues with a mistake that can render even the most brilliant strategist ineffective: the failure to seek input. When leaders make decisions in a vacuum, isolated from their teams and the front lines, they risk steering their entire organisation in the wrong direction.

This “ivory tower” leadership style, where a leader is disconnected from the daily realities of their business, is a direct path to poor decisions, low morale, and missed opportunities.

The Danger of the “Ivory Tower”

Imagine a general planning a battle without ever visiting the battlefield. This is the predicament of a leader who doesn’t actively seek input from their team. We recall coaching a gentleman who ran a large construction company but hadn’t visited a job site in years. The advice was simple but vital: “You need to get out there and meet your people.”

When you are disconnected, you lose touch with:

  • Ground-Level Challenges: The real, daily obstacles your team faces.

  • Customer Sentiment: The nuanced feedback from those who interact with your clients.

  • Innovative Ideas: The practical, process-improving suggestions that often come from those doing the work.

The Power of Being Present

Great leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about knowing where to find them. And the answers are almost always within your team. To be a truly effective leader, you must spend time among your team members. This doesn’t mean micromanaging, but rather observing, listening, and engaging.

This presence builds trust and shows that you value their experience and perspective. It transforms you from a distant figurehead into an accessible and respected leader.

Practical Ways to Gather Crucial Input

Actively seeking input should be a structured and ongoing practice, not a sporadic afterthought. Here are several ways to gather the valuable insights your team holds:

  • Regular One-to-One Meetings: Create a safe space for open dialogue.

  • Team Huddles and Brainstorming Sessions: Encourage collaborative problem-solving.

  • Anonymous Surveys: Allow for honest feedback without fear of repercussion.

  • Suggestion Schemes: Formalise the process for submitting ideas.

  • Management by Walking Around (MBWA): Informally check in with different teams and departments.

The key is not just to ask for input, but to genuinely consider it and, where valuable, act upon it. When team members see their ideas influencing decisions, they feel a greater sense of ownership and engagement.

Lead with Curiosity, Not Just Authority

By making a habit of seeking input, you tap into the collective intelligence of your entire organisation. You make more informed decisions, foster a culture of inclusivity, and build a team that is invested in the company’s success.

Step down from the ivory tower and into the heart of your business. Your team—and your bottom line—will thank you for it.

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