Making Group Decisions

02/20/2015

You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view.
Harper Lee

"Staff members are more likely to feel responsible for carrying out decisions they have taken part in making," observes Holly Elissa Bruno in What You Need to Lead an Early Childhood Program.

"Teams reach decisions by one of two methods — consensus or majority vote.... Groups reach consensus when a meeting of the minds about what action to take. The group gels and is ready to act as one, needing no further debate. With a consensus, no vote is necessary. A consensus is best reached after everyone has spoken on the issue. Before reaching consensus, make sure that concerns and doubts are voiced and resolved.... Rushing a consensus can result in a lukewarm commitment or sabotage the decision.

"Voting on an issue allows the majority to decide for the whole team. This can lead to a disgruntled minority. For this reason, decision making by consensus is usually more unifying. However, if your team's maturity level is high, voting can work. Those who lose the vote 'let go,' move on, and support the outcome. Make sure again that everyone who participated in the vote agrees to support the decision. Ask, 'Does anyone anticipate a problem carrying out this decision? If so, let's talk it over before we leave the room. We all need to be on the same page.'"

Scholastic, Big Day, Ensure Kindergarten Readiness by Building a Foundation for Success.

Softerware, Make Managing Your Childcare Center Easier.

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