35. Make Solid Decisions
Every day you make decisions. Some decisions are easy to make. What should I have for breakfast? What time should I leave for work? Some decisions require instant resolution. What should I do when the fire alarm sounds? What alternate route can I take when I see road construction ahead? Some decisions require research and review before reaching a conclusion. What is the best approach to retraining my coworkers? Should I place a bid on a larger home or remodel my current home? Developing sound resolution skills requires critical thinking and thoughtful analysis to make solid, rather than impetuous, decisions.
Performance Prompts
When making individual decisions:
Use your critical thinking skills and analyze all information before considering a possible solution.
Gather as much information from as many sources as you feel are necessary before you evaluate possible solutions.
Never jump to conclusions before hearing all sides.
Before making any decision, analyze all aspects of the situation.
Consider all possibilities and alternatives before finalizing decisions.
Consider the impact of your proposed solution.
Select the best solution based on available research and information.
When making group decision:
Discuss the situation with the group.
Involve coworkers by describing the problem and telling them specifically how they will be participating in the decision.
Allow all members to voice opinions and clarify ideas before reaching a decision.
When possible, strive to reach decisions through consensus among all members.
If you must make the decision for the group, explain the problem, why you are making the decision for the group, how you reached your decision, and what the decision is.
When This Happens ...
Andrew suggested that you retrain everyone. After putting your critical thinking skills into action by researching and analyzing the problem, however, you realize that the solution is much simpler.
Try This
You are the one making the decision on this. There is no need to involve the members of your team. So, after reaching your decision, explain that you analyzed what needs to be done before tomorrow and that you will be retraining anyone who has questions. When Andrew returns from his meeting, give him a heads up and continue spot training, making sure everyone is comfortable with the new procedures.
Don’t wait for someone else to make decisions for you.