Cornerstone HR Consulting Services

A Miles LeHane Company

The Abilene Paradox

This anecdotal video explores the paradox of mismanaged agreement, and how it relates to decision-making within the organization. It is based on a trip taken by a family to Abilene, Texas—a trip that no one in the group really wants to take.

Who Will Benefit:
All employees, managers, and executives who are involved in group decisions as a normal course of their job responsibilities.

Program Description:
Using a parable about a family trip to Abilene, Dr. Jerry B. Harvey illustrates a series of circumstances that lead his group to meaningless outcomes and blame. It’s a timeless lesson on reading the road signs and knowing when you’re headed to ‘Abilene,’ a place where deeply held logical values become lost in group dynamics.

The Value Added:

Learn the five psychological principles of the “Abilene Paradox.”
How to avoid false consensus.
How to overcome the fear of speaking out.
Effective decision-making within a group.

Our Offering:
“The Abilene Paradox” half-day workshop is facilitated for a group of 8-10 participants by one of our experienced career counselors. The 26 minute video is followed by group exercises that provide an inter-active discussion about what’s needed to ensure people are in agreement for the right reasons. All participants are provided with a participant workbook.

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Cornerstone HR Consulting

Regional locations in Washington, DC, Rockville, MD, Frederick, MD and Winchester, VA, Tysons Corner, VA, Sparks, MD, and Lancaster, PA with headquarters in Leesburg, VA.

205 North King Street
Leesburg, Virginia 20176
Telephone: 703.777.3370
Fax: 703.777.4861
feedback@cornerstonehrconsulting.com