Four Reasons To Beware Of "We Don't Do That Here"

Part of consulting is suggesting new (and hopefully better) ideas and processes. You'll suggest new metrics for tracking performance, or a training program that provides refreshers on a regular basis. These will often be welcomed with open arms, but not always. If your experiences are anything like mine, you'll eventually hear someone in charge say "We don't do that here."

Keep an eye out for this phrase. You'll typically hear it from people in one of two camps:

• veteran employees who have held the same job (or similar roles) for years on end. 
• ineffective directors and executives who hope no one notices their true level of competence.

This is a code phrase. It doesn't mean what it might literally appear to mean. It's an easy out; it's a way to say "NO" without saying no. Your ears need to prick up when you hear this, and investigate through to a lower level of reasoning.

Sometimes it's code for "oh no: change".

Sometimes it's code for "the status quo is comfy".

Sometimes it's code for "that sounds suspiciously like work, and I want no part of it."

Sometimes it's code for "we'd rather not, because it doesn't fit 'our culture'".

Rarely, it's code for "I think we already have a better way of addressing the issue you've suggested that we solve." This is the best case scenario. In this case, the stakeholder is involved and actually has input that could be very useful.

Start asking questions when you hear this. Don't let this phrase slide away. Whether you are a project manager, business analyst, or solutions specialist, find out WHY they don't (or won't) do that here. It may be code for "NO" but the consultant's job is to find out what is behind the code. You might be surprised. Maybe they "don't do that here" because there is already a better idea floating around. One can only hope...