You don't. That's why successful executives often seem like jerks[0]. It's very important to question everything and ask "Why don't we do X instead of Y?" 90% o

You don't. That's why successful executives often seem like jerks[0]. It's very important to question everything and ask "Why don't we do X instead of Y?" 90% of the time there really will be a good reason for Y, but that other 10% of the time pointing it out will stop a really stupid mistake. Plus, the 90% of the time that you're wrong, you learn something. If you're really lucky, you're in a company where feedback doesn't seem personal, and everyone can feel free to question everything. If not, then you just have to play the part of the jerk to ensure some level of quality. [0]: http://bhorowitz.com/2012/10/17/making-yourself-a-ceo/ http://bhorowitz.com/2012/10/17/making-yourself-a-ceo/