Following on from our previous article on why problem solving is an important skill within modern business, we will explore ways that you can greatly improve your problem solving skills. Having proficient problem solving skills is essential for all leaders and managers to be successful, as being able to make strategic decisions and to be able to come up with effective solutions to problems is vital for ensuring the business can develop and continue to be successful.
Understand the Problem
To be able to solve problems effectively, it is important to be able to start by understanding the problem. Being able to understand the problem is the first step to be able to reach a solution. When faced with a problem at work, our initial solution can be an initial reaction and can be too impulsive to produce an effective solution to the problem. When you are faced with a problem, pausing to take the time to research and understand the problem, you can then start to work towards a solution.
Visualise the Problem
When problem solving, it can be useful to be able to visualise the problem. Drawing a diagram or a representation of the issue can help you to visualise the problem more. You will also gain a clearer understanding of the problem, and will be able to visualise potential solutions to the problem.
Rely on Your Experience
Experience is a valuable tool to rely on in the workplace. Gaining experience is one of the best ways you can gain the knowledge and the skills that you need to be successful in your role within the workplace. By utilising your experience you can look back to when you have faced similar problems in the past, and draw similarities between the problem you faced then and the problem you face now. You can remember the solution that you reached, and whether a similar solution would apply to the current problem.
Think Differently
Sometimes it is important to be able to think differently in order to reach a solution to the problem. We can easily fall into a familiar pattern of thinking and strategies when working, however when faced with a problem, it is beneficial to be able to think differently in order to reach a solution to the problem. Trying new ideas and different approaches can result in reaching a quicker and more effective solution to the problem, and thinking more creatively is sometimes needed in order to solve the problem.
Book a Course With Us
Our Strategic Decision Making for Leaders - CMI Level 7 programme focuses on teaching delegates everything they need to know to be able to make effective strategic decisions and to be able to solve problems effectively, and it also gives them the skills to be able to adapt to changes within the marketplace to be able to maximise the success of their business. Effective strategic decision making and problem solving skills are essential skills that business leaders need to hold in order to ensure they are equipped to solve any problems that may arise, and they consolidate the success of the workplace.
At In Professional Development, problem solving is a skill within the workplace that we also cover on many of our other professional training courses. To find out more about our courses, visit our Courses page, and click on the relevant course. Alternatively, or if you’d like more information before booking, email us at enquiries@inpd.co.uk, send us a message using the form on our Contact page, or call us on 0161 826 3139. We look forward to hearing from you and advising you on the right course for you.
