Strategies in Problem Solving that are Important for Managers

The ability to solve problems is a skill that can be learned by everyone, including managers and company leaders. Every day, new challenges and problems are always present in various opportunities, both personally and in the world of work.

The ability to be able to solve problems effectively in various situations is an important asset. This is a must-have for many people in the business world, regardless of their position and role.

Strategies in Solving Problems

People who can solve problems effectively generally have some things in common. They have high curiosity, open mindset, and have a structured system in solving problems.

Usually, managers are trained to be people who can solve any problem. How can you become a reliable problem solver? Here are strategies for solving problems in all situations.

1. Get Enough Rest

If you're having trouble solving a problem, take time to sleep. This step aims to reset your mind. When you rest, your mind will be more prepared because it breaks down your problems better so that they are easy to understand. You can jot down important things before bed will be able to help you.

2. Setting Priorities

Sometimes, you can't solve all the problems at hand. Set priorities for more pressing issues. Prioritize solving the problem and delay solving other less urgent problems.

This step can help you to solve problems one by one and reduce the burden of thoughts that can hinder performance. In addition, it can give new direction and impetus to your problem.

3. Make Details of Your Problem

In general, a problem consists of several elements that make up it. Break down the problem in a more chronological approach. This can be started by noting the origin of the problem, the reason the problem grew, and also the impact on other things. Try to solve the problem starting from one part gradually.

4. Set Timeline

A problem will definitely affect your schedule and timeline in completing a job or achieving your target. Take note of the important dates that will be affected by the problems that arise. This can help you to manage resource planning and reorganize your business targets.

5. Take advantage of networking

Sometimes, you face problems that you have never experienced before. Contact your colleagues or partners, they are likely to be able to help you solve your problem from their experience. Fresh perspectives from networks from outside your company can also be used to solve problems.

6. Learn from Mistakes

Mistakes from the past can give you information that you may have missed. Try to reflect on problems you've had before and how you solved them.

By taking the time to evaluate the problem and its resolution, you can identify things that can help solve the problem. This step also helps you to identify things that have been successfully done to support your business performance.

7. Use Multiple Perspectives and Approaches

In looking at a problem, many people are fixated on one perspective only. This of course will limit the solutions that appear. Try to look at the problem with a bigger approach.

You can start through discussions with consumers, suppliers, external partners, or even other businesses. It can also be expanded to get a point of view from a different industry or sector.

For example, when you understand the consumer experience, you can provide a 360-degree perspective on the problem at hand. This approach is useful for getting you out of troubleshooting patterns that tend to be cliché and familiar.

8. Celebrate Your Achievements

When you can solve a problem, celebrate it with the colleagues or team involved. This step can encourage your mind to be more confident and courageous to face various kinds of problems in the future.

It can also be a source of motivation when dealing with complexities, deadlines, pressures, and the negative impact of problems as they arise. This strategy can go a long way in building confidence and providing hope for other big things in the future.

The ability of an executive is often measured by his ability to deal with problems quickly and effectively. Through the Problem Solving & Decision Making program, you can train managers in considering opportunities as well as analyzing possible threats that will arise in the future.