How can you identify a directive decision-maker?

1 What is a directive decision-maker?

A directive decision-maker is someone who values speed, efficiency, and action over analysis, exploration, or consultation. They tend to have a high sense of urgency, confidence, and control, and they are not afraid to take risks or responsibility. They often rely on their intuition, expertise, and authority to make choices, and they expect others to follow their lead or instructions. They are good at dealing with crises, emergencies, or situations that require immediate action.

2 How to recognize a directive decision-maker?

Identifying a directive decision-maker in yourself or others can be done by looking for certain signs. These can include assertive, direct, or commanding language, such as "I want", "I need", "I decide", or "Do this". Additionally, directive decision-makers may express clear and specific goals, expectations, or opinions without much ambiguity or hesitation. They may also show impatience, frustration, or irritation with delays, distractions, or disagreements. Furthermore, they might seek minimal information, feedback, or input from others and disregard or dismiss alternative perspectives or suggestions. Lastly, they tend to focus on the results, outcomes, or consequences of their decisions rather than the process, logic, or rationale behind them.

3 How to work with a directive decision-maker?

When working with a directive decision-maker, you can cultivate a positive and productive relationship by respecting their authority, expertise, and confidence. Furthermore, it's important to communicate clearly, concisely, and directly, and to follow their instructions or deadlines. Additionally, providing facts, data, or evidence that support their decisions can be beneficial. Similarly, offering constructive and respectful feedback can also be useful. Finally, showing them the benefits of their decisions and helping them implement them effectively can help strengthen the relationship.

5 How to balance your directive decision-making style?

It is essential to remember that there is no one perfect decision-making style for every situation. Depending on the context, complexity, or urgency of the problem, you may need to use different approaches or combine them. To balance your directive decision-making style, you could gain knowledge of other styles such as analytical, conceptual, or behavioral; identify your own preferences, strengths, and weaknesses as a decision-maker; adapt your style to the needs and expectations of the people you are working with; use tools like SWOT analysis, decision matrix, or decision tree; and review, monitor, or evaluate your decisions and their outcomes. Doing so will allow you to learn from successes and failures.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?