Thinkers Thursday: "Why Some Leadership Teams Fail" - Harvard Business Review Article

Hey Leaders,

Based on "Why Some Leadership Teams Fail" - Harvard Business Review article, we often talk about individual leaders, but what about the team of leaders? This HBR article argues that even the strongest leader can falter if the leadership team is dysfunctional.

READ ARTICLE HERE: “Why Leadership Teams Fail".

Key Themes:

Leadership teams can exhibit three destructive patterns:
** “Shark tank” — rampant competition, power plays, internal politics
** “Petting zoo” — conflict avoidance, over-harmonizing, lack of real debate
** “Mediocracy” — complacency, low standards, blind adherence to past success
These dysfunctions aren’t rare—they erode strategy, execution, morale, and the CEO’s ability to lead.
To break the pattern, teams must diagnose their dynamic, shift norms, hold each other accountable, and reestablish psychological safety.

Reflection for Leaders:

When you look at your senior team, which of these patterns shows up (if any)?
What practices or rituals could shift the team toward more healthy dynamics (honest feedback, structured debate, clarity in roles, mutual accountability)?
How do you, as a leader, model the shift you want to see in your team’s culture?

Share one step you’ve taken (or plan to take) to strengthen the health of your leadership team (beyond just managing your direct reports). I'm looking forward to reading your answers in the comment!

With Encouragement,

Dr. Joe

P.S. Better people. Better World.

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