Tough Calls by Bianca Harrington

"Tough Calls" equips leaders and managers to confidently navigate high-stakes business challenges by mastering decision-making under pressure. It highlights that effective decision-making, especially during a business crisis, isn't innate but a learned skill. This involves understanding cognitive biases, establishing robust decision-making processes, and fostering open team communication. The book uniquely emphasizes creating a culture of psychological safety, which is essential for teams to openly challenge assumptions and make sound decisions.

The book progresses systematically, starting with psychological factors influencing judgment under stress and then offering practical frameworks for risk evaluation and solution generation. Through real-world examples like product recalls and financial downturns, "Tough Calls" dissects leadership strategies, offering insights for similar situations. It emphasizes strategic leadership and team resilience.

The book draws from case studies, academic research, and surveys, taking a mixed-methods approach to provide a holistic understanding of the decision-making process. Ultimately, this book provides actionable advice, connecting to crucial fields like organizational psychology and ethics, to enhance strategic planning, crisis response, and team effectiveness. It balances quantitative data with qualitative insights, appealing to those seeking practical, evidence-based guidance to improve their decision-making skills.