Introduction to the four decision making styles
All of us make decisions everyday. We make decisions as to where to eat and what to eat everyday. On a business level, the managers make decisions, ranging from hiring and firing to merger and acquisitions.
All of us make different decisions based on our decision-making styles. The four decision-making styles are: Directive, Analytic , Conceptual, and Behavioral
Directive style
Directive style decision-making has low tolerance for ambiguity and is rational.
When a manager spots the dirt on the window, and orders the cleaner to clean the window now, that is a directive style decision-making. The cleaner has
to follow the instruction, and does not need to ask for clarification.Analytic style
Analytic style decision-making has high tolerance for ambiguity and is rational.
The decision-making style is due to uncertainty, and lack of information.
For example, when the management is discussing about acquisition. They do not make decision fast. They want to have more information before they make the major acquisition. They have to find answers to many “what if” questions.
Conceptual style
Conceptual style decision-making is characterized by high tolerance for ambiguity and is intuitive in nature.
This kind of decision making is for a long term, and subjected to changes.
For example, after Singapore gained independence, the Singapore government decided on industrialization. That was a conceptual style decision-making. There was no guarantee of success,
and no historical data for analysis.As a result of the decision, Jurong Industrial Park was developed along with roads and infrastructure.
Behavioral style
Behavioral style decision-making has low tolerance for ambiguity and is intuitive.
The manager possesses behavioral style decision-making will engage in team discussion. He is responsive to the mood of the team members. He makes decision based on what feels right, and what will motivate the team members to perform. The decision is communicated clearly and leaves no room for doubt.
Conclusion to the four decision making styles
In reality, most of us possess more than one style of decision-making. In many cases, we switch the method of making decision based on the seriousness of the decision.
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Scheng1 is a passionate blogger from Singapore. Rich in every sense reveals my deep desire in enjoying life, and be rich in every possible ways.
