Think about a strong leader you know. Ask yourself a question. Did she make good decisions for your team? The answer is yes. Strong leaders do. Now think about a weak leader. Someone you did not enjoy following. Ask yourself the same question. Did he make good decisions for his team? Your answer probably changed to no. It is difficult to follow someone who makes poor choices.
Making decisions is a constant leadership challenge
All leaders make decisions. It is a harsh reality that leaders face. The decisions you make range from big strategic ones to smaller tactical ones. Some are easy, and many are tough. Several may be simple while others are complex. The best leaders I worked for made good decisions of all types on a regular basis. Sure – you can delay, or avoid making choices. Weak leaders use this approach putting the destiny of their team into the hands of others. Don’t be that kind of leader. Be a strong leader who knows how to make good decisions.
Many teams struggle to make a good decision
It is probably best if I describe what comprises a good decision. The definition for me is simple. A good decision is one that is informed, timely, and the best path forward. An informed decision is one that included the right amount of voices, data, analysis, opinions, etc. before it was made. Making all your decisions based purely on your own experience, expertise, and perspective can result in disaster. A timely decision means that the people responsible for implementing it have enough time for successful execution. Late decisions can wreak havoc on a team, and hasty ones are equally dangerous. The best path forward speaks for itself. Pick the best option.
Leaders are expected to make decisions
I remain amazed by how many people seek leadership positions and hate making decisions. They think decisions can be ignored, delegated to others, or selected through some random process like shaking the magic eight ball. The reality is that all leaders are expected to make a decision. Otherwise, why are you in the position? If you do not like calling the ball, do not become a leader. Do all of us a favor and stay a follower or an individual contributor. All teams deserve a leader who is willing to step up to the plate and make decisions. Go ahead, and swing the bat.
In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing, the next best thing is the wrong thing, and the worst thing you can do is nothing.
President Theodore Roosevelt
Strong execution will not make up for a really bad decision
My last point may not sit well with some. I believe that strong execution will not make up for a really bad decision. Some leaders will agree and say it is obvious. Others will argue that a great team can thrive despite the bad decision of its leader. I don’t agree. Too many times I have witnessed strong and well-intentioned teams tell themselves “we got this” despite a really bad decision from their leader. The leader’s role is to set the team up for success by making good decisions. Not put them behind the eight ball and expect them to make up for it with strong execution. Don’t be that kind of leader. Position your team for the win. They will thank you later for it.
What about you?
Are you making good decisions? Do you know how to make a decision that is timely, informed, and the best path forward? If not, don’t worry – All The Way Leadership! is here to help. The next series of blog posts will focus on making good decisions.
ATW! is designed to make you a better leader
I hope you join me on this journey to raise the next generation of leaders. The world is in desperate need of more great leaders. Women and men who lead with confidence, clarity, and creativity. It’s time to become the leader that your world needs. Let’s go All The Way!