Value Reality Based Decision Making

John A. Allison, Chairman and CEO of BB&T Corporation, talked about the importance of embedding values into its corporate culture. One of the key values they stress is commitment to fact-based REALITY. John made the point with emphasis at a presentation he made at High Point University: "Reality is independent of popularity. Ninety-nine percent of the people thought that the world was flat, but Galileo and the few who agreed with him were right. Reality is also independent of authority. Just because the Pope condemned Galileo's work did not make Galileo wrong. Respect a leader, but respect facts more."

For a CEO to tell that to his people takes true leadership. A CEO wishing something is so does not make it so. At BB&T they stress that "the foundation for quality decision making is a careful understanding of the facts." What is...is! Deal with it! Man can't fly because of the laws of gravity. You don't change the laws of nature, but man can understand and use the laws of nature to create an airplane that soars. Organizations need to be "reality grounded." Denial, ego and complacency can all contribute to becoming disconnected from reality.

We can all think of leaders who ought to be reading this, but take a look in your mirror first. Ask questions to make sure your decision making is fact-based: On the basis of what facts/data are we making this decision? If I weren't your boss, would you have any concerns about this decision that have not been expressed? Since having a popular decision doesn't make that decision right, is anyone aware of any facts or concerns that we need to look at before jumping on the bandwagon? Since the competitive reality we face changes, what can we do to take new measurements and adjust our business goals and mission to take advantage of that changing reality?

(Source: John A. Allison, Chairman and CEO of BB&T Corporation at a presentation on Values to Speakers Roundtable on Friday, August 25, 2006, High Point University)

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[James Shewmaker]

This article was added to the web feed "Reading Assignment" on Tues. Sept. 19, 2006.

Extract: "Optimism is a necessary trait of leadership. But blind optimism leads to irresponsible and reckless behavior that endangers..."

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