What should leaders do if their engineering teams are not aligned with business teams?

Pausing the conversation to clarify the meeting's goal is a strategic approach, especially when there is misalignment between engineering and business teams. By taking this step, leaders can ensure that all participants are on the same page regarding the objectives of the discussion. This clarification can help limit misunderstandings and distractions, allowing both teams to focus on shared goals and outcomes.

When the meeting's purpose is explicitly defined, it fosters an environment where constructive dialogue can occur, addressing any misalignments and promoting collaboration. The clarity brought by restating the goals also encourages team members to voice their concerns or questions, ultimately leading to more effective resolution of any discrepancies.

In contrast, assigning a mediator could create a sense of dependency on third parties for resolution, whereas focusing solely on technical discussions might overlook essential business perspectives that are crucial for alignment. Skipping the meeting altogether can prevent opportunities for dialogue and resolution, which can exacerbate existing issues rather than resolving them.