Decision Making Styles

A520.3.1.RB

1.      What are a few words that describe your decision-making style?

2.      What are the opposites of the words you chose?

3.      Could you see any benefits to making decision using an approach that is based on either the opposites or somewhere in-between and what outcomes would you expect to see?

My decision making style falls into the analytical, logical and linear approach. Whetten and Cameron highlight this way of thinking as “Left-hemisphere thinking,” which is defined as “concerned with logical, analytical, linear, or sequential tasks” (p. 156). When presented with a decision that is outside of my automatic decision making process, I typically gather as much information on the topic as possible (subject matter experts or research), weigh the pros and cons, take into account other internal/external factors that may be affected, and ultimately evaluated the end state I require. Furthermore, I consider the second and third order of effects depending on the complexity of the decision. Once I have come to a decision, I stand resolute with my decision, yet continuously evaluating the outcome to ensure that the conditions I seek are met or in the process of developing. Should I need to reevaluate my course of action, I attempt to be flexible enough to adjust certain aspects of my decision to achieve the desired end state.

When selecting specific words to communicate, I make every attempt to know my audience, their level of understanding of the topic and keep things simple as possible by using positive and universal words to mitigate any misunderstanding. Moreover, when discussing concepts that can be complex, I will use descriptive words and comparisons to “paint a clear picture.” Words mean things, when using ambiguous words or language, the potential for confusion or misunderstanding is significantly increased. Thus, using any form of the opposites words could be best describe as irrational, short-sighted, and irresponsible. I can say that I have had my fair share of these in my early stages of being a leader. By experiencing the confused and chaotic situation my irrational, short-sighted, or irresponsible actions had on others, the results directly conflicted with the type of effective leader I wanted to be. So I carefully looked at some of the areas I need to improve and grow in. Through education, mentorship and maturity, I have addressed many of these issues and continue to develop better decision making skills.

Based on the situation and results, the opposite method of my own approach may be more applicable. For example, someone who is interested in a creative approach in making decision may wish to entertain more intuition or imagination. Moreover, their situation may require an abstract thought process that fosters ideas that would otherwise be hindered in a linear and structured approach. People utilize these methods on a daily basis, however, depending on the decisions one makes, each approach has it place. Nevertheless, being able to make quality decisions (in any case) requires the decision makers to leverage their skills and abilities to come to a point of action to some degree.

Reference

Whetten, David A.; Cameron, Kim S. (2015-05-20). Developing Management Skills. Pearson Education. Kindle Edition.