ABSTRACT

Making decisions using consensus techniques is another strategy that leaders can use to build trust. Decisions arrived at through consensus have several advantages over decisions that are made by one person or a top-down approach. Because the consensus process involves discussion and consideration of various viewpoints, individuals have a chance to voice concerns before a decision is made. Perspectives that might not have been considered are aired, which can provide direction and adjustments so that major problems are avoided. As a result, decisions tend to be more eective and tend to have more support and backing from everyone. Further, individuals who work in organizations that use consensus decision making report being more satised and more productive than those who work in organizations that use a more top-down approach.