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Problem solving in the workplace
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Working in a professional environment has no shortage of challenges and issues. Problems with work, co-workers, clients, other external and internal factors present ongoing challenges on a daily basis. It’s so much easier to avoid it or point the finger at someone else. Problems change; they grow bigger; the original problem becomes a new problem, which then spawns additional problems. So, how then do you problem solve effectively?
Most people want to run in the other direction when confronted with a problem. Let someone else solve it. There might be more than one solution in which case the issue becomes determining the best course of action. How do you become adept at resolving problems? How do you walk the fine line between solving the issue and creating additional dissention with additional problems?
Here are some ideas to help create environments that are collaborative with staff that are committed and connected:
- Don’t try to find an immediate solution. Review the issue – determine what the actual problem is before you try to determine a solution. No doubt people in the organization will have different perspectives as to what the actual issue is. You will need to do a bit of research internally – have discussions with the involved parties to really understand the heart of the matter before a solution should be identified.
- Determine the interests of the involved parties. It is extremely important to really listen to the various people to try and satisfy everyone’s interests. Try to understand the problem – which is oftentimes different than what you thought the problem was initially!
- Develop not one but various possible solutions. There is more than one possible outcome. Brainstorm to come up with ideas. Work with others to review possible solutions. Create a pros and cons list for all of the solutions. Naturally some ideas will be more appealing than others, with more pros than cons.
- Create a solution comprised of things derived from a variety of options. This method could form a solution that you had not thought of. It will take some creativity, planning, and perhaps additional time; but, it will likely be worth it if the outcome generates a positive consensus.
- Review your decisions on an ongoing basis to ensure they are still meeting your needs. Patience and a willingness to continue to monitor various situations and develop new opportunities for improvement will ensure that your working environment remains productive and happy.
It is a process, one that requires some discipline! Over time, you will be able to solve various issues whether you are dealing with a group situation or one with just one other person. The learning process is an ongoing one; pursue the identification of information and use the learning process to make recommendations to foster continual improvement.
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Debra Wheatman, CPRW, CPCC is the founder and Chief Career Strategist of ResumesDoneWrite, a premier career services provider focused on developing highly personalized career roadmaps for senior leaders and executives across all verticals and industries.
Debra can be reached at -
DWheatman@ResumesDoneWrite.com
ResumesDoneWrite.Blogspot.com
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