You have gathered input, asked questions, mulled options and finally reached a tough decision and then you hear “How did you reach that decision!” And it is an accusation not a question. In fact it actually feels like a challenge to your integrity as a leader. Luckily a close examination will usually reveal not a lack of integrity but a lack of transparency on the decision-making process you used.
Writer John Cutler highlights this point in his article “Decision Making Transparency.” People on your team want to know how you are making the decision and how they will be involved. It is crucial that you communicate this information with your team before, during and after decisions. Cutler recommends that you ask yourself the following:
- Who makes the actual decision?
- Who will be impacted by the decision?
- What criteria are being used to make the decision? Factors, budget, timing, scope, requirements, regulations, etc.?
- What are we attempting to maximize, minimize, improve, reduce, develop, or achieve?
- How will we involve others in the improvement of decision-making?
Answering these questions and sharing the information will help ensure that your decision-making actions are transparent and demonstrate integrity.
Todd Thorsgaard
Higher EDge 