I can't agree with the title's assertion, with all due respect. Please no! Your job as leader is to know who the smartest person in the room is - re this parti

I can't agree with the title's assertion, with all due respect. Please no! Your job as leader is to know who the smartest person in the room is - re this particular decision; and point to them so they can make it. Usually (except if you have two subordinates) that won't be you. The higher you climb, the less likely it's you. Almost every failed leader thinks they have to be the smartest person in the room (often every time, on every issue.) Or pretend to be. This leads to catastrophe, it's just a matter of time, 'cause it's a lie. Humility beats that by letting the best mind for that problem arrive at the answer. That said, there are a few times when it's you and you have to overrule everyone else. Wang (of Wang word processors, way back) said he only made two decisions during his whole stay as owner of Wang Laboratories. Every other decision was made by the board with his vote being just one vote, but he over-ruled them all twice, and was right both (critical) times. Each time every other board member opposed his decision. He did it anyway. So yes, every now and then the smartest person in the room IS you, the leader or owner/leader, but it's rare. 'Cause that's NOT your job, being the smartest person in the room. Your job is to know who is.