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What does HiPPO stand for?

HiPPO

HiPPO stands for "highest-paid person's opinion" and describes the tendency of a group to give more weight to the opinions of those with greater authority.
Definition
Daniel Wirtz
Daniel Wirtz
Co-Founder, Facilitator School
Last updated
June 14, 2024

HiPPO, short for 'highest-paid person's opinion,' describes a common scenario in workplace dynamics where decisions are heavily influenced by the opinions of those in the most senior or high-paying positions. This phenomenon can lead to a situation where team input is overshadowed by the authority of higher-paid individuals, regardless of their actual expertise or the validity of their thoughts on the matter.

Understanding HiPPO is crucial, especially in environments where collaboration and innovative thinking are essential for success. Teams that recognize this dynamic can take proactive steps to ensure that all voices are heard and valued equally, fostering a more inclusive and balanced decision-making process. It's not just about listening; it's about ensuring that the decision-making process is democratic and based on the best ideas, rather than the hierarchical status of the participants.

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HiPPO

Why does HiPPO happen?

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HiPPO often occurs because of traditional hierarchical structures in organizations, where seniority is equated with wisdom or expertise. This can be exacerbated in high-stakes environments, where the perceived risk of failure makes it tempting to 'play it safe' by deferring to those with more experience or higher status in the company. Understanding this tendency can be a step towards mitigating its effects.

What are the signs of HiPPO in action?

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Signs of HiPPO in action include meetings where only the senior-most members speak, or their opinions are immediately endorsed without critical examination. Other indicators might be a lack of diverse ideas being considered and quick dismissals of suggestions from less senior team members. Recognizing these signs can help in addressing and recalibrating the balance in opinion weight.

How to avoid the HiPPO effect?

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Avoiding the HiPPO effect can be achieved through fostering a culture of openness and egalitarianism in discussions. Techniques such as anonymous feedback, using a round-robin format to ensure everyone's opinions are heard, and emphasizing evidence-based decisions can help create a more balanced environment. Encouraging all team members to vocalize their thoughts and ideas actively can also minimize the impact of HiPPO.

How to overcome the HiPPO effect?

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Overcoming the HiPPO effect involves actively promoting a company culture where every opinion is valued, irrespective of the job title. It can include training on inclusive meeting techniques, appointing a meeting facilitator who ensures equitable participation, and establishing clear guidelines that focus on the merit of ideas rather than the stature of their proponents. Implementing these strategies can help mitigate the disproportionate influence of higher-paid individuals' opinions.

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