How to Be a Problem-Solver

Posted on by Malcolm Munro in Professional Development, Self Management

I’m sure most of us benefit from the fact we regularly solve problems.  Our normal week probably includes at least one work-related problem per day and a host of problems at home.  With regular practice, we’ve probably gotten pretty good at it.  The key though is the type of problems we solve and the longevity of the solutions.  The best way to gauge our ability is to look at the two types of problems most of us encounter.

1. Short Term – These are problems that give us headaches in the moment and come without warning.  These could be a moderate annoyance or a critical issue that can cause great harm.  The solutions to these problems are quick and result in instant abatement of the problem.  Examples could be a shortage of material, a machine that stops working, or a crucial staff member that calls in sick at the last moment.
2. Long Term – These are chronic problems that have a history of plaguing us.  They may be mild in nature or severe enough to cause hate and discontent but are somewhat systemic in nature, meaning we don’t know why the problem is here or where it came from, we just want it gone!  Examples could be a useless and time-consuming meeting or an archaic approval system that takes forever to come through.
3. Process problems – These are issues with a system itself.  A key supply or component takes too long to come in when ordered or service and repair work never seems to get done on time. It could be related to an inflated performance management system or even the way promotions are awarded.
4. People problems - These are issues that directly relate to a specific person or group of people.  This normally focuses on attitude and behaviors that are caustic and disruptive.

Now the question is:  How do we solve these problems?

First, you’ll need to accurately diagnose the problem.  Figure out which one it is before jumping in to solve.  Next, you’ll need to pinpoint the root cause of the problem.  There’s no point solving a symptom – find the main cause and solve it.  Think about tools like a Fishbone Diagram.  Finally, look for a long-term solution.  Short term solutions merely push the real solution down the line either handing it off to someone else or allowing it to grow in strength and plague you in the future.

If you make a point of coming up with at least one SOLUTION to a problem per day, that would be a start.  SOLVING the problem would make you and all-star, and as we discussed last week, all-stars have job security, if not with a current employer, then certainly with a strong competitor.

This week, think about how you’ll apply this information.

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