Continuing this month’s theme of Cultivating Perspectives, I thought I would share a challenge I often assign clients, called Three Perspectives. 

Before we dive into all that, though, let’s take a quick look at the power behind the number three. The number three has permeated almost every facet of lives, for good reason it turns out. Let’s take a look at some of the more common multiples of three that you may recognize.

  • Three dimensions of space (height, width, depth)
  • Three measures of time (past, present, future or beginning, middle, end)
  • Three Tenors (Luciano Pavarotti, Plácido Domingo, José Carreras)
  • Triple Double (double digits for scores, assists, and rebounds in basketball)
  • Christian Holy Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit)
  • The original Star Wars trilogy
  • Three-act sitcom structures (setup, confrontation, resolution)

I could go on, but I made my point. Or rather, I think I illustrated a pattern. And that, more than anything, is the key to the number three.

Three is the smallest number that forms a pattern our brains can easily recognize.
Three strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and complexity – providing us with enough information without overwhelming us.
And finally, we know information presented in threes is more memorable and persuasive. 

Given what we now know about the power of three, let’s revisit the Three Perspectives challenge.

When faced with a significant decision, like whether to consolidate departments, revise compensation and bonus structures, hire an external c-suite candidate vs promote from within, etc…it’s helpful to view the situation from three perspectives. Your view is often only one point in the triangle (see what I did there?!?! 😎)

Ask yourself:

  • What three groups (or three people) would have a varying perspective? If possible, directly ask those three people for their perspectives on the issue. What is the view from their vantage point?
  • If possible, pull from three different levels within the organization, maybe pull one person from three different departments that might be impacted.
  • Don’t forget to include an outside vendor or an external stakeholder who may have a third perspective for you to consider.

The goal is to combat myopic decision-making while simultaneously observing perspectives you might not have given your vantage point.

Will having three perspectives alter the decision, maybe, maybe not. However, the information gathered can inform the communication plan around the decision, which will go a long way in ensuring smoother transitions.