Respect Trumps Harmony cover art

Respect Trumps Harmony

Why Being Liked Is Overrated and Constructive Conflict Gets Results

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Respect Trumps Harmony

By: Rachael Robertson
Narrated by: Susan Lyons
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About this listen

Develop a high-performing team based on a culture where respect trumps harmony

As teams become more diverse, we won't always see eye to eye. We won't agree on everything, and we may not even like each other. In order to achieve results, we need to have robust, candid, and constructive discussions. Respect Trumps Harmony offers a proven approach to navigating the difficulties faced in teams and workplaces today. To build collaboration; strengthen innovation; and manage safety, risk, and well-being, it's critical that there is a foundation of respect, not harmony.

Developed during author Rachael Robertson's time leading one of the toughest workplaces on the planet - Davis Station, Antarctica - and further informed by over 15 years of research, case studies, and feedback, Robertson suggests that harmony in the workplace is overrated, and can even be dangerous, and that above all else, respect is the key ingredient of a high-performance culture. A focus on respect over harmony improves everything from morale to productivity.

Respect Trumps Harmony integrates the three pillars at the core of Robertson's leadership practice: no triangles, the bacon wars, and lead without a title, enabling you to:

  • Manage conflict and put an end to gossip
  • Improve accountability and the quality of feedback,
  • Recognise and manage dysfunctional behaviour
  • Build collaboration to strengthen innovation
  • Identify and manage risk
  • Inspire trust and confidence by displaying personal leadership, and encourage others to do the same irrespective of their title

Respect Trumps Harmony is a contemporary leadership handbook, essential for all modern leaders and those who wish to transform the culture within their own team.

©2020 John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd (P)2020 Recorded Books
Leadership Personal Success Business

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great concept but a bit too stretched

really liked the concept and the links to real life but it felt it was a bit too stretched to carry all of the chapters

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Easy access first principles for teamwork

Easy to follow narrative not academic language. Clear snappy principles. Very useful starting point to encourage a better team environment.

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Great ideas for leadership

Between workplace and volunteer organisations everything is covered. Great ideas and case studies to learn from. Love the no triangles idea and especially true Respect does trump harmony.

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Handling conflicts

In “Respect Trumps Harmony,” Rachael Robertson presents a refreshing perspective on team dynamics and leadership. Drawing from her experience leading one of the toughest workplaces on the planet—Davis Station in Antarctica—Robertson argues that harmony in the workplace is overrated. Instead, she emphasizes that respect is the key ingredient for building a high-performance culture. As teams become more diverse, disagreements are inevitable. Robertson encourages robust, candid, and constructive discussions rather than seeking constant agreement or popularity.

Here are some key takeaways from the book:
- No Triangles: Robertson introduces the concept of “no triangles.” This means addressing conflicts directly rather than involving third parties. By doing so, teams can avoid unnecessary drama and gossip.
- The Bacon Wars: Robertson shares practical tools for improving workplace dynamics. The “Step In, Step Back” model is particularly effective in promoting mutual respect. It encourages team members to step forward when they have expertise and step back when others can contribute more effectively.
- Lead Without a Title: Robertson challenges traditional hierarchies. She believes that everyone, regardless of their title, can display personal leadership. When team members lead by example, trust and confidence flourish.
- Diverse Perspectives: The book emphasizes that diverse perspectives lead to innovation. Rather than seeking uniformity, teams should embrace respectful disagreements as a catalyst for growth.
- Risk Management: Robertson discusses how respect contributes to risk management. When team members trust each other, they can openly address potential risks and find solutions.

In just 160 pages, “Respect Trumps Harmony” provides actionable insights for modern leaders. Whether you’re a seasoned manager or an aspiring leader, this contemporary handbook will help you transform your team’s culture. Robertson’s focus on respect over harmony improves morale, productivity, and overall team performance.
If you’re looking for practical guidance on building a productive and effective team, I highly recommend this book. Implement the principles, and you’ll see positive changes almost immediately.

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