Feb 20 2009
Understanding Different DECISION-MAKING Styles
Methods of Decision Making:
1) Input to others Leader provides input, and others decide
2) Input to leader Others provide input to the leader, and the leader decides
3) Autocratic Leader decides
4) Consensus Everyone supports the decision
5) Self-directive Others decide without leader input
While we understand that no organization typically uses only one style, we suggest that you examine your organization’s predominant decision-making styles.
At various meetings, assess how decisions are made. Observe and Develop a pattern out of what you’re observing. You’re likely to see one or two basic styles emerge. How does this compare to your own way of making decisions? Being politically savvy means adjusting your decision-making style after the organization’s style.
If there is a highly participative decision-making process, study key members’s behaviours, focusing on how they like to receive information. If a committee structure is involved, decision making is likely to be slower. If driving/dominating individuals are at the decision-making hub, the process will be faster. Adapt your style accordingly. Demonstrate the appropriate behavior of a proactive political leader.
