Based on an article published by Shane Parrish titled, “The Difference Between Amateurs and Professionals,” I'm reflecting on some of his key points with today's discussion on:

“Amateurs make decisions in committees so there is no one person responsible if things go wrong. Professionals make decisions as individuals and accept responsibility."

While committees have their place in giving multiple voices the opportunity to weigh in and make better decisions, they can also become a cover for irresponsibility. Some decisions do not need to be made by a group but should be the sole responsibility of a leader. Professionals can discern the difference and are willing to put their names behind their decisions. Amateur leaders are fearful of taking responsibility and like to ‘hide' in committees.

Decisions should be made by individuals:

-when simplicity and clarity are present (clear policy guidelines)

-when they need to be made quickly (crises/emergencies)

-when groupthink is occurring or the leader is aware of group biases and prejudices

-when they don't affect group morale or employee job satisfaction

-when bringing an issue before a team has the potential to create unnecessary polarization and disunity

-when they don't require group commitment to implement them

-when the individual has expertise and experience in that area (especially when the Dunning-Kruger effect is present)

Decisions should be made by a group/committee/team:

-when complexity and ambiguity exist (sometimes brainstorming and synergy are required to make a good decision)

-when the leader has a conflict of interest

-when they have a serious impact on the group

-when greater clarity and inputs are needed (the problem requires creativity and the expert knowledge of group members)

-when they have the potential to create more investment in the team's mission and vision