Uk Civil service interview question- how to make a decision when you don’t have all the information to hand?

What’s the answer? I said conduct research 😂

Aggy2020-10-11T14:54:56Z

Favorite Answer

1. Determine when the full information will be available
.
2. Decide whether a decision can be deferred for that length of time.

3. If it can't then you determine whether you can make an interim decision which can be amended when the missing information is to hand.

4. If you can't make an interim decision you assess the risk/reward of making a decision which turns out to be inappropriate.

5. If the risk is too high then waiting is better than making a wrong decision.

6. If you have to make a decision one way or the other that is what you are being paid for so you make the decision then zap out an email to your superiors explaining why you took the action that you did and making clear what information was lacking.

7. Finish off your memo to your superior by saying that you need to get together with him/her to ensure this does not happen again. That subtly makes your boss responsible as well.

Anonymous2020-10-12T07:56:19Z

Issue a consultation paper so that all interested parties can respond.

https://www.gov.uk/search/policy-papers-and-consultations?content_store_document_type%5B%5D=open_consultations&order=updated-newest

Doggo !2020-10-11T15:52:26Z

Consult the I Ching while your secretary makes you a sandwich.

?2020-10-11T14:49:48Z

"Research"? In the UK? 🤣🤣🤣


The correct answer is, "follow the mainstream mindset". Since Brits find it difficult to think for themselves, echoing what others think is the safest path to take - you're always "right".

Ludwig2020-10-11T14:21:11Z

Find out what conclusions your bosses would like you to make and go along with that.

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