Problems—big and small—occur at all phases of life, including workplaces. They are characterized by difficulty and stress and always require a solution. The best way to navigate this is to ensure you have the problem-solving skills to find and implement solutions.
In this article, we will be detailing the problem-solving skills and tips to enhance them.
What is a problem-solving skill?
It is a type of soft skill that involves identifying a problem, recognizing the root cause, finding a solution, and implementing an action plan to effectively deal with the problem. It is the art of finding problems, listing solutions, and choosing the best option. Any individual with this skill can successfully handle challenges, either foreseen or unforeseen.
This skill requires other soft skills, such as critical thinking, research, planning, analysis, and patience, to create an action plan that would be the best solution to the identified problem. The end goal of this skill is to solve a problem, hence its name, “problem-solving skill.”
The problem-solving process
This is a step-by-step method beginning with the problem and ending with the implemented solution.
1) IDENTIFYING THE PROBLEM: This is the part where you acknowledge an unsolved problem and then diagnose it. It involves critically examining the issue’s impact and asking questions. It is the stage that sets the foundation for the other steps.
2) RECOGNIZING IT’S ROOT CAUSE: Identifying a problem is not enough; you need to find the fundamental reasons that contributed to its occurrence. No problem exists without force; there is always a pushing factor behind it. Hence, it is crucial that you know the reason for such a problem. Without a clear understanding of the reason for the problem, you will never be able to find the right solution that would tackle the problem from its foundation.
3) DO A RESEARCH ON THE PROBLEM AND ITS ROOT CAUSE: When you are looking to tackle a problem, please make sure that you have your findings on the identified problem and its root cause. This will help to guide the options to consider when seeking possible solutions.
4) EXPLORE PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS: Here, you must take the initiative to consider diverse options that would help solve the problem. You need to employ your research skills at this stage because it is highly crucial that you consider options from different angles.
5) EVALUATE YOUR OPTIONS: This is the stage where you consider the advantages and disadvantages of every possible solution. Here, you’ll need to look over each of the solutions and the impact on the problem. It would be best if you also considered how long-lasting your solution is. To successfully evaluate your options, it’s vital that you understand the goal you aim to achieve after you have implemented it because you need to make your decision based on that goal.
6) IMPLEMENT AND MONITOR YOUR BEST OPTION: The problem-solving process is completed once you have implemented your preferred solution and monitored this action to ensure that you have your desired outcome. When your chosen solution does not work after you apply it, you may need to adjust and find other possible solutions.
In conclusion, problem-solving skills are essential soft skills that are highly beneficial to every organization, which is why they are a top skill in demand by employers. Every employer wants to ensure you are not unnecessarily creating panic because this skill helps create an aura of calmness even in the most challenging situation.
At I-Train Africa Skilled For Work Academy, a 3-year tested curriculum and learning process ensures you embody these skills.
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