When Is It Good to Be a "Yes Man"?

The Depth of Saying "Yes ... with Impact"

Author

Paul Littlejohn
October 11, 2023

Welcome to the Wingman Newsletter
Here, I delve into the art and science of leadership, drawing from nearly three decades of experience as a fighter pilot and business leader
Every week, I curate insights, tools, and strategies to help you become an exceptional leader. Whether you're just starting , our newsletter aims to be your "Executive Wingman" in navigating the complexities of leadership.

Introduction

The term "being a Yes Man" often carries a negative connotation, conjuring images of mindless agreement without critical thought. But what if saying "yes" could be a catalyst for deeper understanding and untapped potential? Welcome to "Yes … with Impact," a leadership approach that challenges the quick "no" and opens the door to nuanced decision-making. This is not a simplistic mantra; it's a method grounded in the rigors of combat and validated in corporate leadership.

  • Discover the transformative power of saying "Yes … with Impact," and why it's not the same as being a "Yes Man."

The Complexity of "Yes, with Impact" in High-Stakes Scenarios

In the military, saying "yes" is often more complex than it appears. During a mission in Basra, the immediate response to grounding a helicopter fleet for safety concerns was a quick "no." However, the Commanding General needed to weigh the risks and impacts, he needs to know what the impact of saying yes, and flying potentially dangerous helicopters was. This demand for a “yes … with impact” response lead to a more informed decision that balanced both safety and mission objectives.

  • Grasp the intricate dynamics of saying "yes, with impact" in high-stakes situations.

The Value of Context in Decision-Making

The "Yes … with Impact" approach is not about reckless affirmation; it's about understanding the full scope of a decision. This method encourages leaders to consider the broader implications, thereby fostering a bias for action grounded in deep understanding. It doesn’t mean the answer will be yes, it does, however, mean that it isn’t a default no based on unspoken assumption.

  • Understand why context is crucial for impactful decision-making.

Bridging the Gap: From Combat to Corporate

This approach is not limited to high-stakes military decisions. In the corporate world, "Yes … with Impact" helps leaders and teams go beyond the immediate "no," encouraging a culture of innovation and accountability. It demands critical thinking and the desire to succeed in spite of challenges. Done consistently you and your team will start to see the world of possibilities that are out there.

  • Learn how this approach is universally applicable and beneficial.

Actionable Insights

For Current Leaders

Challenge your team to think beyond the immediate "no." Encourage them to say "yes" but also articulate the impacts, both positive and negative of a particular course of action. This will deepen the level of understanding within your team and set the stage for a bias towards action.

For Aspiring Leaders

Begin to frame your suggestions and decisions in the "Yes … with Impact" model. Why is it that something is not possible? Is there really no way it could be done? This will not only make you a more thoughtful team member but also start to develop creative and critical thinking skills essential for future leadership roles.

  • Implement these steps to become a more effective and insightful leader.

Conclusion

The "Yes … with Impact" approach is not an easy path; it demands a deeper level of understanding and a willingness to confront the complexities of each decision. However, the rewards are significant: it unlocks potential, fosters a bias for action, and ultimately leads to more informed and effective leadership.

  • Embrace the challenges and rewards of the "Yes, with Impact" approach for more effective leadership.

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