Definition
Consensus building is “a process of seeking unanimous agreement” (Susskind 1999, p. 6).
Introduction
The road to consensus is a continuous, paved mosaic of managerial contribution. Achieving mutual understanding (along with shared governance) is a process by which possession of legitimate power may not necessarily translate to effective workplace outcomes (Wodak et al. 2011). A solely transactional focus misses the consideration essential to creating a “positive psychological atmosphere” (“Building Consensus,” 2005, p. 14). The manner in which leaders approach conflict resolution (one divergent from “command and control”) is a precursor to effective work relations. “Facilitative leaders” (Susskind 2009) or “unleaders” (Manz and Sims 1984) use tact, diplomacy, a willingness to hear all sides of an argument to solicit, understand, and integrate employee perspectives and to “… consult with the...
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Gilbert, J. (2016). Leadership and Consensus Building. In: Farazmand, A. (eds) Global Encyclopedia of Public Administration, Public Policy, and Governance. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-31816-5_1897-1
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