25. Bag consensus.

When you’re working on a project, it’s important to get input from the key players involved. But you can’t afford to sit around and wait for everyone to agree. Decide how you’re going to make a final decision before asking for input.

One executive was so addicted to getting agreement from everyone that when faced with the challenge of integrating another company into his own, he held meeting after meeting to make sure that everyone was enthusiastic about his strategy. By the time he was ready to implement his strategy, it was too late—the acquired company had begun to implode. It ruined his career.

When you ask people for input, let them know up front when and how your decision will be made. That way, if they miss the deadline, you’re not obligated to slow down. Whenever possible, appoint one person the final decision maker. Whether it’s you or someone you’ve chosen, the final decision maker is ultimately accountable for the project’s success.

When you’re part of a team working on a project with a large scope, different people may be responsible for different decisions. Again, this does not mean you need to struggle for unanimity. Get input from the key people involved in the project, as well as anyone else whose insight or knowledge can help you get a better result. Then discuss their input, make decisions, and move.

Complete consensus is often impossible—don’t waste time waiting for everyone to agree. Before asking anyone for their input, decide how to decide.