We Need a Decision Rather Than A Committee

 

Over the last several months, we've talked a lot about the decisions project leaders can and can't make. There are many who shy away from making decisions because they don't believe it's part of their roll. I understand. However, the fact that I might understand does not negate the reality that the ability to make decisions is part of what organizations are looking for in the people they promote.

Last week, at the Gartner Summit in London, Tina Nunno suggested that the primary reason that CIOs are replaced is because they can't "lead with the leaders." She further suggested that, "What got you here isn't going to keep you here."

When Nunno argues that the difference between a leader and a follower is the ability to make decisions, I agree with her. That being said, I recognize that in many organizations, the project management role is not typically a "decision-making" role. Most of the time they look to project managers to execute on strategic decisions that have already been made. However, that doesn't mean we don't make decisions or that we shouldn't. In fact, if we want the profession and our personal careers to advance, I think it's important that we demonstrate that we are able to think strategically and make smart decisions.

Within the limitations of our role, how do we do this? Let me make a couple of suggestions:

1. Never present a problem without a proposed solution or two. Once you've identified a situation that requires a solution, even if you don't have any mandate to make a decision, offer a proposed solution to the person who does. Sure, he or she might ignore you, but they will also recognize that you are willing to do more than what you're told.
2. Sometimes making decisions as a group is a smart idea, however according to Nunno, "Together we are [sometimes] dumber than one of us."
3. When guidance is lacking, it's a good time to lead. When the opportunity to provide some leadership presents itself, seize the moment, step out of your comfort zone and take the opportunity to lead.

Within a profession that is working to take a bigger role within the organization, I must admit that I have been surprised at the number of project managers who push back when I suggest that there is a bigger role, but we need to change the way we think about what we do. I don't think it matters what the size of your organization is, it is looking for leaders--people who can make decisions and effectively lead people. What better place to foster those skills than within the project environment?