Over thirty years ago, I first read about a study that analyzed how the significant sections of a symphony orchestra viewed each other. They regarded:
- those in percussion as uncaring, dim-witted, and exuberant
- those playing stringed instruments as egotistical and stodgy
- those playing the brass instruments as noisy and garish
- those playing the woodwind instruments as arrogant though worthy of admiration for their meticulous attention to detail
So, how in the world could this orchestra create something worth listening to? Two words: deferment and leadership.
The conductor’s leadership organized a culture of excellence, which helped generate beautiful music. And, despite the symphony members’ various opinions, they could put aside their prejudices and perform their individual tasks well. The result cultivated art in its highest form.
If you hold a leadership position, offer such quality in your work that people will naturally follow you.
If you are one of the team not holding a leadership position, set aside individual judgments of others so that you may perform your task well.
And may your organization offer beautiful music.