Super Deciders

Chapter 12Case 6: Making “Tough” Decisions

Claudio Feser, David Redaschi, and Karolin Frankenberger

Isabelle was wondering how to deal with the take-over bid for ATG, while addressing the situation at home.

Isabelle turned to the Decision Navigator methodology to evaluate three of her options, that is: (1) to resign from ATG and focus on immediate issues at home; (2) to reduce her workload through delegation and asking for help to have time to address the issues at home; or (3) to focus solely on work and address family issues later – which might mean never (Figure 12.1).

After long discussions with Marco, Isabelle decided to share her personal situation with her board chairman Carlo and with the members of the GET.

She had never shared vulnerabilities with anyone, but Marco. “Showing weaknesses is dangerous.” A lesson she had learned dearly in her childhood. She had learned to look after herself, not to depend on others. But this time she had no choice.

Figure 12.1 Six-step Decision Navigator for Case 5.

To her surprise, but not Marco's, Carlo and her GET colleagues rallied to help her: “Isabelle, we have your back. We will do whatever it takes to give you the room and space you need. As long as you don't give up on ATG and our journey!” said Alessandro, speaking for the GET.

She hadn't expected that. She never trusted anyone, and now the whole team was trying to help ...