Being a manager
can be both stimulating and challenging. Transitioning from an individual
contributor to a manager comes with the opportunity to influence
decision-making processes, implement business strategies, and oversee
organizational change initiatives.

It can also
increase the likelihood that you’ll make mistakes, as you take on greater
responsibility and learn how to manage not just yourself, but others. If
leveraged correctly, these professional missteps can become learning
opportunities.

Being aware of
common pitfalls that managers encounter when facing critical business decisions
is a great way to ensure you are equipped with the know-how to overcome
organizational challenges and lead your team to success.

Here are
several common pitfalls in decision making that should be avoided if you want
to be effective.

1. Deciding alone. There are many benefits to
   consulting with others on a decision: gaining different perspectives, more
   resources to draw upon and more commitment to the decision by those
   consulted.
2. Every decision a major decision? Not every decision requires a
   lengthy decision-making process. Don’t get bogged down with minor
   problems. If they’re minor, make a reasonable decision and move on.
3. “The last time I was wrong was
   when I thought I made a mistake.” No one is always right. If
   you’ve made a bad decision, admit it and get started on fixing it.
   Remember – it’s impossible to force a bad decision into being a good one.
4. “Boy! I sure wish I hadn’t.” Just the opposite of pitfall
   #3. Because no one can be right all the time, don’t waste your energy
   regretting bad decisions. Get on to current issues.
5. Failing to use past precedent. Maybe the same problem has
   come up before and been effectively solved. Perhaps, if it has come up
   enough, there is a company policy that covers it.

Understanding
how to leverage and navigate the decision-making process is essential to
becoming a better manager. By learning about the common pitfalls that managers
encounter when facing important business decisions, you can ensure you’re
equipped with the know-how to overcome organizational challenges and lead your
team to success.