Why problem solving at work is important & how to improve it

In life, there will always be problems, including in the workplace. To minimise their impact, effective and innovative solutions are required.

Unsolved problems in the workplace can have significant consequences for productivity and financial viability. Therefore, problem-solving has been identified as one of the most in demand skills by employers.

So why is problem-solving so important in the workplace and how can you improve your skills?

Why is problem-solving important?

It helps you handle difficult situations

No matter your role, you are certain to encounter difficult situations at work. To overcome these challenges, strong problem-solving skills are critical.
Being able to handle difficult situations at work will see you well-placed to progress your career.

It encourages unconventional thinking

Approaching problems proactively and believing you have the ability to solve them can lead you to come up with more unconventional solutions.

It motivates you to work well under pressure

Problem-solving helps you to succeed even when working under pressure. Skilled problem-solvers thrive when there’s a deadline approaching or they’re facing a complex workplace challenge. They can determine if a problem requires a quick or more complex but long-term solution.

It helps you take smart risks

Once you realise that there can be multiple solutions to an issue, this encourages you to take calculated risks. Therefore, developing strong problem-solving skills allows you to approach your work with more confidence. Strong problem-solvers can foreshadow potential problems ahead of time and have solutions ready to implement.

Tips to improve your problem-solving skills

Analyse and understand the cause of a problem

You can’t solve a problem if you don’t know what it is and what has caused it. When you encounter a problem, analyse it to see if you can identify its cause.

Research solutions and practices

When working a project, identify issues that may have come up previously on similar projects. A good way to do this is by speaking with a more experienced colleague or mentor, or even your boss or manager. Try to identify how these issues were resolved. Take note of any solutions that were not successful.

Brainstorm with a team

Working with others allows you to see challenges from a new perspective. Even if you are a seasoned problem-solver, a colleague may have a solution to a problem that you have never considered.

Practice Active Listening

Active listening skills can play a critical role in problem-solving. When someone is speaking to you about a problem, make sure you listen carefully to what they are saying. This allows you to gain more insight into the problem they are experiencing. The more information you have, the better equipped you will be to come up with a solution.

Visualise possible solutions

When considering potential solutions to a problem, try to visualise the impact these solutions may have. Think about which people or projects the solution may affect. Doing so can help you to avoid unintended consequences.

Give your mind time to rest

Just like electronic devices, our brains need time to recharge. If you are constantly thinking about a problem, it can be difficult to come up with solutions. While this won’t always be possible, putting the problem aside for a while and thinking of other things can help to refocus your mind. Stepping away from the problem for a while may lead to a sudden flash of inspiration or an innovative solution when you least expect it.

Replicate successful solutions

If you develop a successful solution to an issue, make sure to record it. This allows you or others to quickly implement it if the same issue arises again.

By mastering problem-solving skills you will be well on the way to achieving your career goals.

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