"Boardwork 101: Why Every Organization Needs More Than Just a ‘Yes Person’"

Imagine this: a boardroom filled with people who nod along to every idea, agreeing without question. It sounds like a dream for CEOs, right? No dissent, no challenges—just smooth sailing. But here’s the catch: this is a recipe for disaster, not success.

Every organization needs more than just a “yes person” at the table. It needs critical thinkers, constructive challengers, and diverse voices.

Why? Because without diversity of thought, decisions can become myopic. A “yes person” may not question whether a strategy is the best course of action, whether it’s aligned with the company’s values, or if there’s a major risk lurking that hasn’t been considered. They simply agree, keeping things comfortable. But comfort doesn’t breed innovation or sustainable growth.

In contrast, healthy dissent is a board’s secret weapon. When board members ask tough questions, challenge assumptions, and play devil’s advocate, it sharpens ideas and exposes potential flaws. It forces leadership to be more transparent and think through every angle. This doesn’t mean constant conflict, but rather an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and dialogue leads to better decisions. This is what keeps organisations thriving and future-proofs them.

A “yes person” board can create an echo chamber, but a well-rounded board fosters balance. By combining expertise from various fields—finance, law, marketing, tech, even cultural awareness—the board can offer thoughtful advice and solid checks on decision-making.

In short, a good board isn’t about harmony in the sense of agreement. It’s about harmony in the sense of constructive tension, where the best ideas emerge not from comfort, but from the challenge of differing viewpoints. And that, in turn, is what drives organizations toward real, long-term success.