When a group of strangers gets together for a shared goal, it's easy to believe that's all there is to make things work. One of the challenges in the group setting is how to bring the best idea forward. Many hurdles can hinder this process, and status is one of them.
There are several ways that status brings power dynamics. People more experienced with the work are naturally considered to have more insights and understanding of the challenges. Those with little experience or insight but hold a relevant job title also gain others' trust and the benefit of the doubt. We naturally trust and align with people we consider "friends." Lastly, if people are in the same situation as us, we consider them allies, too.
As Adam Grant describes in his book Hidden Potential, the subtle but complicated web of status dynamics can create a filter that amplifies some voices while muting others. This 'status filter' often overlooks the best ideas that a group can generate, favoring the ideas from the group's most 'powerful' individuals instead. It's an important reminder that, despite our collective efforts, a higher chance of success is not always guaranteed.
Seeing how the group status impacts the decision-making, we can correct the course and find a better path forward.
