We all have well-established neural pathways. If left unexamined these can become “ruts” or patterns that limit our ability to change. In the case of groups, we can think of norms as collective neural pathways that make up the group mind. Norms are the unwritten rules of behavior in a group that guide member actions.
Once two or more people come together, norms begin to emerge. They form, change and grow over time. Different groups create different norms. Some norms are helpful and some norms get in the way. To understand norms is to understand the invisible, informal structure of the organization. It is our collective “under the waterline.”
Norms:
● are more powerful than any force exerted by outside forces.
● can help or hinder goals. May be in opposition to formal policy.
● create predictability and reduce uncertainty.
● when broken can lead to alienation – “being voted off the island.”
● carry the seeds of the culture.
● can be difficult to disclose.
● can only be changed by agreement of the group.
Understanding and working with norms is a valuable leadership tool. Getting people to talk about norms can be a challenge. The lessons in this module give you a way work with norms that minimize defensive reactions.
The first lesson has a link to a handout that describes two exercises that you can do with a group/team in your organization. The second lesson is a set of reflection questions for you to complete after you’ve worked with your group/team.
