More than two-thirds of managers believe that training has improved their decision-making abilities, according to a survey by the Chartered Management Institute.

The research, which questioned 615 senior executives, found that 45% of respondents felt better equipped to make decisions due to their management status, while, 70% suggested that training has influenced their ability.

Despite nine in 10 were confident in their own abilities, managers were frustrated by an inability to reach decisions. Hurdles to decision-making included, pressure from colleagues, bureaucracy and a lack of resources.

Nearly half – 43% - said they gained confidence from international experience and 64% from undertaking development programmes.

Responding to the findings in the research, the Chartered Management Institute has come up with some advice on making decisions.

Tips include:
• Remain objective: decisions impact on those around you, so consider the effects on colleagues or team members before making your mind up. That doesn’t mean opting for the easy way out, but considering the issue from the point of view of what will work best for them.
• Take your time: too many people believe that they have to make up their mind quickly. They believe that a fast decision keeps the pressure off. Instead, allow yourself time to weigh up the risks and assess all the options and you are more likely to reach a conclusion based on clear, considered arguments. Of course, sometimes you will need to make a quick decision, but recognise that this is not always the case.
• Communicate your decision: outline clearly what you expect from people. They are unlikely to know why you want things done a certain way unless you tell them. So explain your reasons and make sure colleagues understand them. If you don’t do that, the likelihood of others accepting your decision is greatly reduced.

Jo Causon, director, marketing and corporate affairs, at the Chartered Management Institute, said: “Often people are afraid about making mistakes. But it’s worth remembering that, sometimes, more can be learnt from errors than from getting things right. It’s important to accept that you may not always get things right, but by making sure that you are informed and well prepared before making your final decision, you will minimise the potential for errors and wrong choices.”