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.

Back to Products

Cornerstone HR Consulting

Regional locations in Sparks, MD; Tysons Corner, VA; 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