How to empower your team to make decisions

Short answer: say “You decide how. Check with me before spending over $500.”

DON'T SAY
“Just do whatever you think.”
SAY THIS
“You decide how. Check with me before spending over $500.”
Clear limits give people freedom to act without guessing.

When to use it

Use it when you want someone to own a decision. Give them the freedom to choose how, and set one or two clear limits, like a budget or a check-in point. Clear limits let people act confidently instead of guessing what you'd approve.

Example

Teammate: “How should I handle the vendor change?”

You: “You decide how. Check with me before spending over $500.”

In an email or Slack message

In writing: “This is your call. Only limit: check with me before committing more than $500. Otherwise, go for it.”

Quick drill

In your first weeks leading a team, whether you're new or promoted from within.

Which sounds more confident?

Practice 10 more →

Free PDF guide

25 phrases that make you sound confident at work

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