-Ask staff, friends, or advisers for their opinion.
-Seek consensus with my team and then go with the majority.
-I decide what needs to be accomplished and then communicate my decision and expectations to staff.
Making major business decisions by seeking consensus is not a healthy business process. People tend to address major business decisions based upon their needs and agenda. They do not necessarily have the best interests of the business in mind when they share their opinions. Insecure staff might view it as an opportunity to tell you what you want to hear and thereby get closer to you.
Take the advice from people with a vested interest (staff, suppliers etc.) with a grain of salt. Ask appropriate questions based upon their experience and qualifications. Remember, they may be not be qualified to answer your questions and could even become overwhelmed by the question, feeling pressure to answer.
