For Harvard Business Review
Image: Richard Newstead/Getty Images
Summary.
Giving employees autonomy is critical for innovation, performance, and motivation. But while giving your employees more decision-making authority might look straightforward, in practice, it’s hard to pull off. The author refers to the gap between the desire for more empowerment and capability (with confidence) the “decision deficit.” Left unaddressed, employees become frustrated that the promise of greater empowerment and autonomy isn’t followed up with actions and don’t see the opportunity to develop themselves. Leaders also feel frustrated with the lack of progress. The author offers five strategies that can help you reduce this decision deficit.
Autonomy is a hallmark of an innovative culture. The ability to make decisions for yourself enhances motivation, which in turn contributes to higher levels of performance and well-being. It also gives leaders more time to focus on the most significant and complex decisions and explore new sources of value creation. Creating more autonomy involves shifting power from the top and center of the organization to the front line by empowering people to make decisions.
