Every organization, from nimble startups to corporate giants, conducts its own peculiar orchestra of intelligence and absurdity. The question isn’t whether your company experiences moments of folly—it’s about identifying which movements in this grand symphony of stupidity tend to dominate your workplace’s performance (and how often…).

The authors of the book The Stupidity Paradox describe Functional Stupidity as the tendency in organizations for individuals to limit their thinking and focus solely on the narrow, technical aspects of their jobs. The book argues that this «organized attempt to stop people thinking seriously about what they do at work» is often rewarded and even encouraged by organizations.

Drawing inspiration from the «Stupidity Paradox» framework, let’s explore the five flavors of functional foolishness that might be seasoning your corporate stew:

• Is your team masterfully conducting a «Leadership-Induced Stupidity» concerto, where ideas are embraced not for their merit, but for the impressive titles of those who propose them?
• Perhaps you’re witnessing a lively «Culture-Induced Stupidity» ballet, where outdated traditions pirouette gracefully around much-needed progress?
• Are you navigating the complex harmonies of «Structure-Induced Stupidity» where departmental silos create a cacophony of inefficiency despite individual virtuosos?
• Maybe your organization is starring in its own «Branding-Induced Stupidity» rock opera, believing its own exaggerated hype to the detriment of long-term success?
• Or are you participating in an «Imitation-Induced Stupidity» tribute band, mindlessly covering other companies’ greatest hits without considering your unique audience?

Identifying your organization’s signature composition of corporate comedy isn’t just an exercise in amusement—it’s the overture to a more harmonious, effective workplace. By recognizing these patterns, you can begin to rewrite the score, transforming discordant practices into a symphony of success.

So, what’s the dominant melody in your organizational opus? Are you ready to pick up the baton and conduct a masterpiece of meaningful change?

Remember, acknowledging the absurd notes in your corporate composition is the first step towards creating music that truly resonates with success.
#corporateculture #behaviour #humanresources #leadership #soes

References:
– The Stupidity Paradox
– www.strategy.inc