Improve Decision Making Skills with Online Courses & Training Programs

Why learn about decision-making?

All kinds of decisions taken by an organization, strategic or operational, have the power to propel growth or, at the same time, lead to its stagnation. A consciously created decision-making approach, therefore, is paramount. Behavioral economics are integral to decision-making in business as we sometimes tend to stray from objectivity and attach deep-rooted sentiments and biases to decisions.

In any company, decision-making is a collaborative process that holds immense potential to take the company to newer heights. Nowadays, more and more businesses incorporate machine learning and artificial intelligence technology, which grounds decisions in real-time insights and data. Furthermore, including inputs from various stakeholders across hierarchies offers fresh perspectives, further strengthening the decision-making process.

This is not always an inherent skill; professionals often need to be trained in decision-making. Given the growing competition in a volatile market, the urgency to learn decision-making takes on a new meaning. The good news, however, is that there is a wide array of resources to choose from when it comes to equipping oneself with the necessary decision-making skills.

How to develop effective decision-making skills?

Decision-making, like every other process, consists of several steps that together help us make informed choices. However, there is also a specific skill set that can greatly enhance one’s decision-making capabilities. These are:

• Adaptability
• Analytical and critical thinking
• Team spirit
• Strategising
• Problem-solving
• Active listening
• Time-management

Decision-making requires planning. We must have a blueprint of the approach and a solid conception of the ideal or potential outcome to move forward. At this stage, it’s important to take inputs from experts, supervisors, and trusted colleagues who can offer valuable insights into the approach, desired outcomes, and even market trends. Then, once the plan is in place, we can gather the resources and support required to execute it.

While making decisions, we must keep the bigger picture in mind. That is, put things in perspective. This leads to flexibility and effective problem-solving instead of debating the nitty-gritty of every aspect of the decision. Having perspective also makes the process more time- and energy-efficient, resulting in practical and realistic deadlines.

Like any other skill or competence, decision-making requires practice. However, before putting oneself out there, it is useful to have a holistic and theoretical grasp on the matter. To this end, books, online decision-making courses, and other resources can greatly help.

How can decision-making impact your career?

Whether for a leadership role or an early-career professional, effective decision-making skills enable you to positively and significantly impact the organization while enhancing work-life balance. The ability to make quick, well-informed decisions makes one resourceful, competent, and dependable team player with a strong sense of accountability. The analytical skills associated with decision-making, furthermore, improves productivity and helps in the mitigation of potential risks in businesses. Demonstrating such skills can immensely benefit those aspiring to a higher position and contribute to the company's goals.

Why take an online course at Emeritus?

Each Emeritus online course is designed keeping key learning outcomes in mind by a team of experts. We use the backward design methodology to develop instruction for learners of all ages. This enables us to craft unique, interactive, learning experiences that include a combination of assessments, hands-on activities, skill application, and more.

Emeritus also collaborates with the best universities and faculty around the world to curate the course curriculum that can effectively tackle present challenges in the industry, while preparing you for the trends and risks in the future. Our courses consist of assignments, exams, capstone projects, networking opportunities, a fine balance of practical and theoretical concepts, and the opportunity to learn from top minds in the industry. This adds to the holistic experience we try to provide for each learner.

We are also focused on providing courses that are standardized in quality. This is done by adhering to standards set by a global organization called Quality Matters which is focused on providing quality standards for online and innovative digital teaching and learning environments. The rigorous criteria ensures all our learners invest in quality education that is easily accessible and affordable.

Can I work full-time while learning decision-making online?

Online decision-making courses are usually self-paced and packed with information and exercises that learners of all levels can attempt. Dedicating regular time, however short, can significantly augment one’s proficiency in marketing. Therefore, working full-time while pursuing an online decision-making course is an attainable goal.

How valuable is an online decision-making certificate?

A certificate proves that one has a close understanding of decision-making, its fundamentals, and the finer nuances. Most online decision-making courses offer certification highlighting that a job-seeker is aptly skilled and driven to learn. Demonstrating such attributes can significantly boost one’s employability.