Ever wonder why decisions made collectively are more powerful than those made solo? It’s not magic, and it’s not luck – it’s science. Diverse perspectives produce better outcomes because they challenge assumptions and introduce fresh ideas. Teams understand the robustness of the decision and get behind it to make it happen.

But as powerful as collective decision making is, it’s not always easy to implement.

Here’s the truth, collective decision making isn’t just a trendy leadership buzzword. It’s the cornerstone of successful organisations. And yet, many leaders struggle with it, fearing endless debates, loss of control, or inefficiency.

So let’s bust those myths.

Diversity is the secret sauce, that’s why it works. And it’s not just about race, gender, or age. It’s diversity of thought, experience, and expertise that creates real value. When you invite varied perspectives into the room, you gain a richer understanding of the problem at hand and, crucially, a broader set of solutions.

But to reap the benefits, you need the right environment. That means fostering psychological safety, where team members feel empowered to speak up without fear of criticism.

Making it practical is often where leaders get stuck. So how do you make collective decision making work when the clock is ticking and the stakes are high? It comes down to three key steps.

First, set the ground rules. Make it clear from the outset, that every idea is welcome and there’s no such thing as a stupid question. If people don’t feel safe to speak up, you won’t get their best thinking.

Second, facilitate with purpose. Your role isn’t to dominate, it’s to guide. Keep discussions focused, draw out quieter voices and manage the louder ones without shutting them down. Think traffic controller meets coach.

Finally, decide with discipline. Be clear on how the decision will be made … consensus, majority vote, or leader’s call. One team I worked with floundered for weeks until they nailed this. After that, they moved fast.

As always, I’d love to hear how collective decision making is working (or not) in your organisation. Drop me a line and share your experiences!