How do you improve decision-making communication in remote or hybrid settings?

1 Choose the right tools

The first step to improve decision-making communication is to select the appropriate tools for your team. Depending on the type and complexity of the decision, you may need different tools, such as video conferencing, instant messaging, polls, surveys, or collaborative platforms. Choose tools that are easy to use, secure, and compatible with your team's preferences and devices. Also, make sure to establish clear guidelines and expectations for using the tools, such as when to use which tool, how to respond, and how to escalate issues.

2 Define the decision criteria

The second step to improve decision-making communication is to define the decision criteria and communicate them clearly to your team. Decision criteria are the standards or factors that you use to evaluate the options and make the best choice. For example, you may consider the cost, quality, feasibility, or impact of each option. By defining the decision criteria, you can help your team understand the purpose and scope of the decision, as well as avoid confusion, bias, or conflict.

3 Involve your team

The third step to improve decision-making communication is to involve your team in the decision-making process. Depending on the decision style and the situation, you may want to consult, collaborate, or delegate the decision to your team. Involving your team can help you gain diverse perspectives, insights, and feedback, as well as increase their commitment and ownership of the decision. However, you also need to balance the level of involvement with the urgency and importance of the decision, and avoid overloading or overwhelming your team.

4 Communicate the decision and the rationale

The fourth step to improve decision-making communication is to communicate the decision and the rationale behind it to your team. This can help you explain why the decision was made, how it aligns with the team's goals and values, and what are the expected outcomes and implications. Communicating the decision and the rationale can also help you address any questions, concerns, or objections that your team may have, as well as acknowledge their contributions and feedback.

5 Implement and monitor the decision

The fifth step to improve decision-making communication is to implement and monitor the decision with your team. This can help you ensure that the decision is executed effectively, efficiently, and consistently across the team. It can also help you track the progress and results of the decision, as well as identify any gaps, risks, or opportunities for improvement. Implementing and monitoring the decision can also help you provide feedback and recognition to your team, as well as celebrate their achievements and learn from their experiences.

6 Review and reflect on the decision

The sixth step to improve decision-making communication is to review and reflect on the decision with your team. This can help you evaluate the outcomes and impacts of the decision, as well as the process and methods that you used to make it. Reviewing and reflecting on the decision can also help you identify what worked well and what can be improved, as well as capture and share the lessons learned and best practices. Reviewing and reflecting on the decision can also help you foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement in your team.

7 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?