When it comes to decision-making, conservative tendencies prevail in almost every aspect of society. Whether it’s a governmental body, a corporate strategy group, or a local country club membership panel, observing their approval process can provide valuable insights.
While we may be highly knowledgeable about our offerings and the positive change we seek to bring, it’s important to remember that the decision-makers are not us, but rather a committee. Their decisions are often not based on what outsiders might consider the ‘right’ choice, but rather what is right for them at that particular moment.
These decisions are typically influenced by a combination of factors:
Persistence: New ideas are rarely embraced immediately, often taking years to gain acceptance.
Urgency: Although advance planning is logical, urgent matters are often prioritized due to fear, risk avoidance, and competing priorities.
Affiliation: The unspoken influence of “What will our peers say?” heavily weighs on decision-making.
WIFM: Each decision-maker is primarily concerned with what’s in it for them, whether it be status, affiliation, fear avoidance, or personal desires.
Compromise: As a committee, group acceptance of a small benefit may be favored over a larger benefit that could cause division.
Status: Status roles within the committee and within the organization play a significant role in shaping decisions.
Considering these influential factors, it’s clear that a better idea may struggle to gain traction in the face of these forces.
