How to Avoid Decision-Making Pitfalls

Making decisions can be a tricky business. Whether you're looking for guidance, or have a track record in good choices, some stumbling blocks can trip us all up.

Here's our top five to watch out for, and tips for decision-making success.

1. You Jump Right In

With deadlines looming and stakeholders getting twitchy, we sometimes make hasty decisions. Protect too soon, and you could overlook that key piece of info that builds a true picture of the problem. Instead, carefully consider the situation by evaluating relevant facts and figures. Do that, and you'll be better placed to spot challenges, opportunities, and the right way forward.

2. You Go it Alone

You don't have to make big decisions by yourself. By asking your team or colleagues for their thoughts, you can consider an issue from different perspectives. That way, you'll see how a decision may have wider implications. You'll make a more balanced and objective judgment too, one not ruled by the emotions, assumptions, and hidden biases we all have.

3. You Get Sidetracked by Groupthink

When making decisions as a group, you may find big characters take center stage, while others simply go along with suggestions. To curb groupthink, ask your team to prepare before you meet up. This gives everyone the opportunity to express themselves, and generate more ideas for you to chew over.

4. Good Decisions Go to Your Head

Making good decisions can sometimes lead to overconfidence, complacency, and mistakes. So, however awesome your track record, try to avoid rule-of-thumb shortcuts that have worked in the past. Instead, prep properly each time. Do that, and you'll get better at hitting that sweet spot between paralysis by analysis and seat-of-the-pants decisions.

5. You Don't Learn From Experience

The best decision makers know the value of reflection, what's worked and what's missed the mark. Ask yourself what you've learned from last time, and if there are any areas in the decision-making process you could improve upon. Reflect, yes, but don't hang around. Timing can be everything. And once you've done the groundwork, have the confidence to act. That way, you and your team won't miss out on success.