3. Problem solving is the essence of what leaders exist to
do.
The goal is to minimize the occurrence of problems by
tackling them head-on before circumstances force our
hand.
We must be resilient in our quest to create and sustain
momentum for the organization and people we serve.
People complicate matters with:
Corporate politicking
Self-promotion
Power-plays and ploys
Envy.
Silos, lack of budgets and resources, and many other
random acts or circumstances also make it harder for
people to be productive.
4. Competitors equally create problems for
us by:
Unexpectedly converting a long-
standing client
Establish a new industry
relationship
Launch a new product, brand or
corporate strategy.
Mergers & acquisitions
All these keep us on our toes and further
distract us from solving existing problems
by creating new ones.
5. Problems are part of a leader’s day to day life
They have the patience to step back and see the problem
at-hand through broadened observation; circular vision.
They see around, beneath and beyond the problem itself.
They see well-beyond the obvious.
The most effective leaders approach problems through a
lens of opportunity.
6. Problems are part of a leader’s day to day life
Never view a problem as a distraction, but rather as a
strategic enabler for continuous improvement and
opportunities previously unseen.
Never approach problem from a linear vision. Don’t only
seethe problem that lies directly in front. It can block the
possibilities that lie within the problem.
Never view a problem as a distraction, but rather as a
strategic enabler for continuous improvement and
opportunities previously unseen.
7. Never view a problem as a distraction, but rather as a
strategic enabler for continuous improvement and
opportunities previously unseen.
Never approach problem from a linear vision. Don’t only
seethe problem that lies directly in front. It can block the
possibilities that lie within the problem.
Never view a problem as a distraction, but rather as a
strategic enabler for continuous improvement and
opportunities previously unseen.
8. As a leader, spend enough time defining
problems. Question to ask are:
1. What is the problem?
2. What should we be achieving instead?
3. How can I achieve this solution quickly
and efficiently?’
Once the issue is identified, you will be able
to form an action plan for it with your team.
9. Finding the root cause of the problem is the
next step.
Look for overall patterns
Ask questions about the what, who, where,
when, and how to better understand the
impact of the issue.
Leader should evaluate and understand all
the angles of the issue so that action can be
taken moving forward.
10. Data offers a fact-based perspective
on a problem and can help in
defining the issue.
Problems need to be explained to
stakeholders along with a set of
solutions if the problem is one that
persists over time.
Data translates discoveries into
something tangible for others to see
in the business.
11. Good communication skills enables a clear
and effective problem relaying to key
stakeholders.
Transparency is always a good start to
communication. There is need to be clear
about plan of action with the team a
leader is leading as well as with key
stakeholders.
By showing others that you’re
transparent, there is a gain of respect
from the team.
Remember, people who are supporting
the solution need to stay motivated and
invested in the task until it is resolved.
12. After coming up with
few solutions, there is
need to make ideas
actionable.
First step is by creating
lists with accurate
actions, timelines &
prioritization.
The cost and time
evolution should be
considered in all solutions.
13. Mistakes can only be evaluated from a hindsight
perspective. Errors that occur should be part of a
growth and development strategy.
They provide learning opportunities and improve
overall process and approach.
Leaders should use these mistakes to improve their
overall approach, process and implementation plan.
The most important thing about solutions is that
they should be continuously improved upon over
time.
Developing strong problem-solving skills is a critical
part of becoming a successful leader. Following these
steps will help in boosting effectiveness, productivity,
and catch any red flags before they hit.
14. 14
Breakout Session
1. Kindly come up with a plan on how to effectively solve a
problem that you have identified in your organization.
2. From the problem you have identified, find the key issues to
tackle in your solution.