Adam Grant Module 2: Barriers to Re-thinking

Module 2 Highlights:

There are three modes that people slip into that keep leaders from re-thinking:

• Preacher mode: Proselytizing their own views.
• Prosecutor mode: Attacking somebody else’s view to prove them wrong.
• Politician mode: Only listening to people who already agree with their views.

Importance of accountability:

For leaders to think like a scientist and rise above being a preacher, a politician or a prosecutor, they can ask other people to call them out and hold them accountable when they slip into that mode.

Understanding triggers:

• Preacher mode is triggered when people believe their sacred beliefs are under attack. They become extra motivated to double down when they actually need when they need to pause and open up.
• Politician mode is triggered when people feel like they’re losing favor. They start to worry that they are not liked enough or not getting enough support. It’s activated by insecurity socially.
• Prosecutor mode seems to be triggered primarily by somebody preaching that what someone believes is incomplete or incorrect. The irony is that when someone preaches, they trigger prosecutors. Which just leaves the preacher to preach even more, and neither learns anything.

Module 2 discussion questions:

1. Which style do you find yourself slipping into — preacher, prosecutor or politician?
2. Where do you see these roles emerge within your leadership team? Which role is an obstacle that you see the most?
3. Describe a situation in which you reached an impasse based on these styles. What would you do differently now that you have the language to describe it and understand the impact?

Note: This video content has expired. 

Related Resources

Adam Grant brings insights to Vistage for a member-exclusive event

Discussion guide for Vistage Chairs (Members can request a copy from their Chairs) 

56 views

Share