Leaders Seek Right Answers

Shaan Puri shares a perspective on leadership humility, specifically about the importance of prioritizing getting to the right answer over being personally right. He references a story about a Sequoia partner who exemplified this trait.

Key Points:

• Leadership Mindset:

  • Focus on "getting it right" rather than "being right"
  • Quickly acknowledge when someone else has a better idea
  • Use the phrase "Nope, I like your way better, let's go with that"

• Cultural Impact:

  • Sets a tone that values outcomes over ego
  • Creates an environment where people feel comfortable sharing ideas
  • Demonstrates that leadership is about finding the best solution, not asserting authority

• Benefits:

  • Faster decision making
  • Better team collaboration
  • More innovative solutions emerge when people feel safe to challenge ideas

• Implementation:

  • Be quick to admit when wrong
  • Openly acknowledge better ideas
  • Make it clear that the goal is finding the right answer, not defending positions

• Real World Example:

  • Sequoia partner known for this approach
  • Will immediately switch positions in meetings when hearing better ideas
  • Focuses entirely on getting to the right answer
  • Known as part of what makes him "great" in his role

This approach represents a shift from traditional leadership styles that often prioritize authority and being right, to a more collaborative approach focused on optimal outcomes.