How to Make a Decision

In today's ruthless business world, office professionals simply cannot be indecisive in the workplace. We're often faced with complex issues to which a solution is not obvious. Many of us call these solutions "executive decisions" but we all need guidance in formulating a plan to get there. If indecision plagues you, as it does all of us from time to time, this comprehensive guide to decision making will work wonders.

Don't confuse the idea of decision making with good decision making. While these tools are great at helping you reach a decision, it doesn't necessarily mean you'll make the right one every time. Of course, you can flip a coin or trust your Magic 8 Ball to prophesize your decision destiny, but if you're looking for a more calculated approach, I've got just the fix.

Six Thinking Hats

An article I read suggests wearing these "hats" as a powerful technique to help you look at important decisions from a number of different perspectives. Each hat is color coded to represent a different style of thinking.

White hat - Looking at the information you have, analyze past trends and learn from historical data. Here you should focus on data to reach your solution.

Red hat - Use your intuition and emotion. Think of how other people will react and how that decision will affect them.

Black hat - Think of everything that can go wrong with your possible solution. Then, create solutions to those possible issues. The point is to prepare for anything.

Yellow hat - Think of the benefits of your decision. Determine the value of your solution in all areas that it will apply to.

Green hat - Get creative. This is your chance to take the unorthodox approach to problem solving. Think of unconventional methods to your solution.

Blue hat - Use this hat to maneuver between the others. It's described as "process control" but is mostly applicable in group meetings or brainstorming sessions. Use it to keep others in the appropriate hat style of thinking.

PMI (Plus, Minus, Implication)

It's as simple as the pros and cons of a possible solution but the method I propose is a little more sophisticated than a simple list.

Begin with three columns; pros, cons and any implications of those two. Naturally, list the pros under its column and the cons under the other. In the third column labeled implications, state a point to consider. Next, you'll assign each of them a number. Use positive and negative numbers to illustrate how important each factor is to you. Then, take the sum of all the numbers to reach your decision. If the number is negative, the answer is no. Conversely if the number is positive, the answer is yes. For example:

Decision to make: Should I get another dog?

Pros

My two dogs will have another playmate (+1)

I will have another playmate (+1)

Cons

Extra cost (-2)

Potty training a new pup (-3)

Training the dog to obey (-1)

Three dogs to walk (-1)

Implications

I want to wait to have children if there is another dog (-3)

Rescue the dog from a shelter (+3)

My answer is clearly no. Of course, the weight you put on each factor is totally subjective, but that's ok. It helps you to think of every factor, and consider the value of each, to reach a solid decision.

Make a List

This might seem a little old fashioned and rudimentary, but according to an article on the subject, it really works.

State your situation or question at the top of a piece of paper. Under that, list the details of the problem and the people involved.

Next, list all the possible choices you can think of. Don't forget to include inaction as a solution as deciding not to do anything is still a decision.

Then, you'll want to list the pros and cons for each choice. Remember to consider the safety and legality of each choice as well as how it will affect those involved.

When you've completed your list, you should be able to determine the appropriate choice to make much like the PMI technique.

Whether your issue is big or small, all of these methods can help you narrow your decision to one you're comfortable with. Never underestimate the power in decision making. Plenty of high level executives are celebrated for their abilities and it's proven to be a necessity for all office professionals. You want to be the go-to person in the office in order to be revered as someone that can get things done. Cast indecision aside and use these tips to gain respect among your peers.