We like to think that the best ideas and decisions will rise to the top in a group. Unfortunately, many environments that you’ll work in aren’t a meritocracy.
That’s because everyone has their own interests, and what’s best for the group may not be best for the individual.
It all depends on who has the decision-making authority, which can be determined by a number of factors like position, seniority and influence.
If you want your idea to rise to the surface, make sure you promote the idea on both its merits and its benefit to those in power.
And if your idea will threaten those in power, be very careful. Egos are stubborn yet very fragile. There are ways you can influence a group to adopt an idea, but it may come at a personal cost.
During your career, try to place yourself in environments which foster a meritocracy, but be prepared to operate in any hierarchical structure.
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