Problem - Solving

Problem-solving is an important skill that people use every day in the workplace. Whether it’s figuring out how to fix a mistake, making a decision, or coming up with an idea for a social media post. Being a great problem-solver means you’re able to stay calm under pressure, think creatively, and work with others to find the best solution.

Have you ever solved a problem at school or with friends?

What steps did you take to figure it out?

A great problem solver can look at a problem from different viewpoints, think about possible solutions, and make the best decision. For example, suppose a customer at a store is unhappy with a product. In that case, an employee needs to think quickly to figure out how to resolve the issue—whether it’s offering a refund, suggesting a different product, or finding a way to meet the customer’s needs. In this lesson, we’ll explore how you can apply this skill in the real world.

I think I have a problem

Got Problems? Need Help?

We all face problems in life—big or small—every day. A problem is when something is wrong or isn’t working how you want it to. For example, maybe you’re struggling to finish a homework assignment on time or trying to figure out how to organize your schedule. On a larger scale, an owner of an ice cream shop might need employees’ help to figure out how to make more sales during the slow season. The ability to problem-solve helps you unpack what’s going on.

Let’s Explore!

Some problems are easy to solve, while others need more thinking and planning. Check out the presentation below to learn one way to approach problem-solving in the workplace. By understanding how to think through problems, you’ll become more open-minded and be ready to face challenges in the real world.

Review the presentation below for one perspective of a problem-solving process.

Seven Steps for Problem Solving:

Recognize the problem
Define the problem
Analyze the problem
Establish criteria for the best solution
List all possible solutions
Choose the best solution
Implement and evaluate the solution.

Motivational speaker Tom McNeil has developed another process for problem-solving. His avenue for problem-solving or overcoming obstacles is referred to as APEF.

Analyze the obstacle, Plan your action to overcome it, Execute the plan, feedback and evaluation This is a more straightforward approach to problem-solving.

Exceptional employees can:

think critically and creatively
share thoughts and opinions
use good judgment
and make decisions

It is not always the approach taken to solve a problem; employers are usually thankful when new employees can offer ideas for efficient ways of doing things.

Let's Review

Arrange the seven steps to Problem Solving.

Let's Wrap This Up!

The ability to solve problems is something that will help you succeed. Think about it as solving a jigsaw puzzle. You don't just start putting random pieces together – you usually look for the edge pieces first to build a strong foundation. This is like problem-solving. You figure out the problem, think of different ways to solve it, and then combine the pieces to find the best solution.

Problem-solving means using what you know to make mindful decisions. It doesn't mean having an answer immediately but thinking carefully and developing a good plan. Employers value employees who can solve problems and organize their thoughts.

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