A problem can be any task or assignment or project that you need to complete. Usually, it involves several different steps or stages. Some of these will require specific methods that are particular to your subject area.

Finding innovative solutions to issues or challenges faced by your team are at the heart of excellent problem-solving. These solutions are often required for tight deadlines or when only limited resources are available – hence why problem-solving is a skill that can separate the good leaders from the great leaders. Developing problem-solving strategies takes persistence and dedication, but it can be achieved by employees working across all roles and industries.

In addition to following a series of logical steps to get your problem solved, you’ll find you can improve your problem-solving skills by using particular resources and developing several other complementary skills. When committing to becoming a better problem solver, consider the below:

Mine data:

Knowing how to read, interpret and use available data will be a valuable tool in solving the problems you face in your career. Data often presents the factual information or statistics required for developing a solution, so always exploit it if available. Understanding how to mine data also involves knowing how to translate and share it with colleagues and stakeholders, who, once understanding it, may contribute to a fast and effective solution.
 

Constructive debate:

Arguing for and against a particular problem-solving strategy is a useful way of determining the pros and cons of each, and deciding which solution you’ll implement first. Debating options also requires you to research and develop levelled arguments for each strategy, a valuable technique in selecting the best solution and optimising as you go.
  

Identify problems before they occur:

Someone with brilliant problem-solving skills (and very likely the respected leaders you admire) will have, over time, developed the ability to identify problems before they occur. While this doesn’t mean they can always be avoided, it does allow more time to establish and implement the best problem-solving strategy. This special skill also relies on extraordinary knowledge of an organisation, its values and processes, the industry it exists within and broader market trends.
 

Learning from mistakes:

In all areas of your professional life there is the potential to make mistakes, having tried something that, despite your effort and consideration, fails to achieve the desired outcome. Making mistakes to develop your problem-solving ability is no different, and they remain an important way of learning how to improve process and practice.
  

Great Communication Skill:

Most great problem solvers are likely to have excellent communication skills. These skills enable to you effectively detail what the problem is, engage the right and most valuable people, and keep them connected to the task at hand from start to finish. So if you’re looking to develop your problem-solving strategies, we highly recommend working on your communication skills as well.

Improving your problem-solving skills will enable you to see problems as opportunities to improve systems and relationships, not occurrences to fear or panic over. The more your skills and strategies are developed and practised, the more you’ll have to draw from when you’re faced with bigger and more challenging problems in your professional life.