Making Effective Decisions examples
Grade-specific examples of Making Effective Decisions behaviour statements. Every example is word-count accurate, includes a STAR breakdown, and shows why it scores well.
Featured example
Below is our best example for Making Effective Decisions. Browse by grade to see how the behaviour is expressed at different levels.
[S] During a busy Saturday shift, two of my six checkout staff called in sick unexpectedly, leaving us with a growing queue and a scheduled delivery due in 30 minutes.
[T] I needed to decide how to maintain customer service levels while ensuring the delivery could be received safely.
[A] I quickly assessed the queue length and estimated wait times. I decided to close one self-checkout lane and redeploy that colleague to the main tills, which would clear the queue faster. I also called the delivery driver to confirm a 15-minute delay was acceptable, and arranged for a stockroom colleague to cover the delivery. I communicated the plan to the remaining team, emphasising that customer service was the priority.
[R] The queue cleared within 20 minutes. The delivery was received without incident. Customer satisfaction scores for that shift remained at 92%, the same as our weekly average. My manager later used the incident as a case study in team briefings.
- Shows the decision-making process: assessment of situation, weighing options, then action.
- Demonstrates consideration of multiple stakeholders (customers, delivery driver, team).
- Uses a number to show the decision worked (92% satisfaction maintained).
- Shows the decision was proportionate and timely, not delayed by over-analysis.
Plagiarism note: This example is for inspiration only. Adapt it to your own experience. Assessors can spot generic or copied statements.
Examples by grade
Click your grade to see a tailored example. Each grade requires a different level of complexity and evidence.
Focus: Following procedures, supporting team goals, showing awareness of wider context.
250 words
EOFocus: Initiative within role, understanding how work supports the team.
250 words
HEOFocus: Broader awareness, stakeholder engagement, proactive problem-solving.
250 words
SEOFocus: Strategic thinking, cross-team influence, managing wider priorities.
250–500 words
Grade 7Focus: Senior-level strategic oversight, policy awareness, organisational impact.
500 words
Grade 6Focus: Director-level strategic leadership, cross-departmental influence, systemic change.
500–750 words
Scenario-based examples
Sometimes it helps to see examples organised by the type of situation. Browse these common scenarios to find one that matches your experience.
Team conflict
Resolving disagreements or tension between colleagues.
Tight deadline
Delivering quality work when time is short.
Process improvement
Making a system or workflow work better.
Customer complaint
Handling a difficult customer situation well.
New system
Adapting to or implementing a new way of working.
Cost saving
Reducing costs without reducing quality.