How to Improve Your Business Decision-Making Skills

Effective decision-making is among the most valuable skills to possess in your career. It can help you become more productive and confident while saving you time on work-related tasks. Today’s article will discuss the definition of decision-making and the 10 different ways you can improve this valuable skill. 

What is Decision-making?

Decision-making is the act of making informed choices based on past experiences and the information available to you. It’s a learned skill that is highly sought after by hiring managers looking to bring on new employees who can effectively contribute to their business. 

How to Improve Your Decision-Making

Set Decision Deadlines

A lengthy decision process can leave room for doubt in our minds. While critical decisions should be given more time, make sure you set deadlines based on the importance of the decision. 

Make Plans

Before a big decision, review the resources available to you. If you need to decide how you’re going to meet a company goal, try to create 1 or 2 plans and map out your options to help you make your decision. 

Ask a Pro

Being a strong decision-maker doesn’t mean you can’t ever ask for help. Asking a senior employee for their opinion on your current thought process can help to strengthen your convictions around your decision. 

Take Command

Being assertive in your decisions can help you develop your confidence. If you doubt yourself, others will too. To assert yourself, provide your group with the resources and ideas that lead to your decision.

Consider Your Options

When faced with multiple options, create pros and cons lists for each one. This will paint a clearer picture of each option which will help you make an informed decision. 

Limit Your Choices

If you have too many options to choose from, you’ll need to be more critical so you can narrow down your choices. Only the strongest contenders should remain on your list of options. 

Keep Things in Perspective

Every decision you make will have a different value. Which sign-off to use in your email has much less weight compared to which new slogan you’re going to choose for your company. Determining the value of each decision helps to keep things in perspective.

Embrace the Arts

Time spent learning a skill in the arts can dramatically improve your concentration and mood, which helps your decision-making. Try learning an instrument or taking a salsa dancing class to sharpen your mind. 

Move Your Body

Sitting at a desk all day can dull the senses. Luckily, you can keep your brain active with a daily exercise routine. Get your blood pumping with a short walk, some strength training, or a martial arts class to keep your body and mind healthy. 

Spend Time with People of All Ages

Expand your view of the world by spending time with people of all ages and walks of life. This can help you look at decisions with a new, more balanced perspective.