Improving decision-making skills at work

We all make lots of decisions every day — from small, routine choices to more complex judgements that require careful thought. However, the decisions we make at work can have far greater consequences, affecting team outcomes, productivity, workplace relationships and even organisational risk.

Good decision-making is not just a leadership skill. It is essential at every level of the workplace, whether you are prioritising tasks, managing workloads, resolving problems or responding to unexpected challenges. The ability to make sound decisions consistently can influence both individual performance and broader organisational success.

So, why is good decision-making important, and what practical steps can help you make better decisions at work?

Why are decision-making skills important?

It is inevitable that problems will arise in the workplace, regardless of your role or level of experience. Strong decision-making skills allow you to address these issues efficiently, minimise disruption and maintain momentum.

By improving your decision-making skills, you can reduce the time it takes to reach a decision, improving overall workplace efficiency and reducing delays. Making well-considered decisions also helps to build trust and credibility with colleagues and stakeholders. Over time, this can strengthen working relationships and reduce the likelihood of conflict in the workplace.

How to improve your decision-making at work

A key way to improve your decision-making is by involving others in the process. It can be difficult to make strong decisions in isolation, particularly when issues are complex or unfamiliar. Drawing on multiple perspectives helps reduce blind spots, challenges assumptions and encourages more balanced solutions.

When making a decision, consider the following steps:

Identify the decision

The first step is to clearly identify the decision that needs to be made. Be specific about the problem you are trying to solve and the outcome you are aiming for. It is also important to consider who or what may be affected by your decision, both in the short and long term.

Gather information

Next, gather all relevant information required to make an informed decision. Collect data from a range of sources where possible, including colleagues, policies, reports or past experiences. Basing decisions on facts and evidence helps reduce the risk of bias and improves confidence in your final choice.

Identify your options

Consider the different solutions available to you. Ideally, identify at least three possible options. Weigh up the pros and cons of each, including timeframes, costs, resources required and potential risks. Where possible, involve other team members to test ideas and identify alternatives you may not have considered.

Choose the best option

After assessing your options, choose the solution that has the strongest chance of success. Be sure to consider any risks that may arise from your decision.

Take action

Develop a clear plan to implement your decision. Identify key tasks, responsibilities and timelines so expectations are clear. Delegate where appropriate and ensure everyone involved understands their role. Communicate the decision clearly to those who will be affected.

Review your decision

Once your decision has been implemented, take time to reflect on the outcome. Consider what worked well, what could have been improved and whether the original goal was achieved. Reflecting on past decisions helps strengthen your decision-making process and builds confidence over time.

Strong decision-making skills are valued across almost every role and industry. Employers look for people who can assess information, manage risk and take action with confidence. Showcasing your decision-making skills is especially important when addressing selection criteria and preparing job applications, as it allows you to clearly demonstrate your judgement, problem-solving ability and the impact of your decisions.

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Article References

Indeed (14 November 2025) ‘Decision-Making Skills: Tips and Definitions’, Indeed, accessed 23 January 2026.

Robert Walters (30 April 2025) ‘How to strengthen your decision-making skills and make better choices at work’, Robert Walters, accessed 23 January 2026.