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Implementing a Robust Problem Solving Process

Every company is at a different stage of the Lean Enterprise journey continuum and has a need for robust problem solving; at TXM, our Lean consultants see across the whole spectrum, from those just starting to realise there is a better way of doing things on daily basis, to those who have robust production flow and kanban systems. A key transition step from “implementing” Lean to it becoming a way of daily manufacturing life is how we build problem solving into everything we do.

Everyday Problem Solving

The TXM concern strips provide a forum for everyday highlighting and addressing issues that arise at the production cell level. The best training we can offer our operators is the skills to identify problems and come up with possible solutions. This helps to embed responsibility to the team for their own issues.

Including a review of the concern strips into the morning meetings keeps the focus on problem solving. A weekly deep dive into the cells concern strips is also needed so the greater support network can help the cell develop robust, root cause corrective actions.

Developing Robust, Root Cause Corrective Actions

While concern strips are great to improve visibility of daily issues, they are not sufficient to delve into all of the factors that may have influenced that problem. This is where the fishbone diagram and 5 Whys are also needed.

Fishbone diagrams, developed by cross functional teams allow all of the issues which may contribute to a problem to be flushed out. The top two or three items can then be subjected to the 5 Why process, diving deeply into why ash situation has arisen.

Once the most likely root cause and a possible corrective action has been established, the concern strip is used to monitor how well the solution has fixed the problem.

Where to Begin with Problem Solving

Once daily meetings have been going well for a few weeks, it is time to introduce concern strips to your manufacturing cells. Your lean consultant can help you with setting up the infrastructure and logistics. Documenting your problem solving process and training all involved is as critical in problem solving as with any of the other lean tools.

And remember, as the Lean Enterprise Institute points out: Sustaining a lean transformation requires continuous problem solving by everyone in the company. Success hinges on how well we teach and apply a robust, shared problem-solving method at all levels to incorporate “evolutionary learning” into the company culture – https://txm.com/lean-solutions/lean-problem-solving/

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Author: Robert Chittenden

Robert Chittenden is a Senior Lean Consultant at TXM Lean Solutions

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Problem-Solving Skills: Meaning, How to Improve & Problem-Solving Examples

In life, we meet obstacles and challenges that need thoughtful solutions. These moments call upon our problem-solving skills. We understand and identify problems, come up with a strategy, and address the problems at hand. These are not just about 'solving' problems. We identify them accurately. We devise various possible solutions and then use the most suitable one. They encompass critical thinking, creative ideation for a solution, effective decision-making, and competent execution to solve the problem.

Problem-solving skills influence our personal and professional growth. They help in managing a financial crisis or leading a team project at work. They help in resolving a difficult problem in personal relationships. Our ability to solve problems effectively impacts the outcome.

Good problem-solving skills have now become more important than ever. From rapid technological advances to global crises, new challenges have emerged. Our ability to adapt, innovate, and find solutions determines our success. More importantly, they also determine our collective progress.

In this article, we will discuss the concept of problem-solving skills. We will understand their meaning, their importance, and how you can improve them. We will also provide practical examples and strategies. Let's understand and improve our problem-solving abilities. ⁠

Understanding Problem-Solving Skills

Importance of developing problem-solving skills, key elements of effective problem solving, strategies to improve problem-solving skills, real-life examples of problem-solving skills, developing problem-solving skills in specific contexts.

Problem-solving skills involve the ability to identify a problem. They involve analysing possible solutions. You then decide on the most suitable option and use it effectively. This set of cognitive skills is vital for decision-making, critical thinking, and creativity to solve problems. Whether we realize it or not, we use problem-solving skills in our daily lives. We resolve conflicts at work. We solve problems in managing personal finances. We use problem-solving to plan for unforeseen circumstances.

Having strong problem-solving skills has many benefits. You become better at handling stress. It encourages logical and strategic thinking in coming up with a solution. It equips you to deal with unexpected challenges with confidence. Employers highly value these skills. Strong problem-solving skills show a proactive attitude. They show the ability to contribute to organisational growth.

The value of problem-solving skills is far-reaching. Their application spans every aspect of life - from personal dilemmas to professional challenges, and academic puzzles to global issues.

In the professional world, employers value individuals with strong problem-solving skills. These individuals can tackle challenges head-on. They can adapt to change, innovate, and contribute significantly to the organisation's success. They are often the ones who can turn a crisis into an opportunity. They transform an underperforming project into a successful one. Moreover, leaders with robust problem-solving skills are better equipped to make strategic decisions. They manage teams and drive organisational growth.

Problem-solving abilities play a pivotal role in academics and learning. It is an important skill we use to understand complex concepts. These skills enable students to analyze information. They apply knowledge in practical situations. Students with developed problem-solving skills tend to perform better. They show a deeper understanding of subjects. They have more success in applying their learning.

Problem-solving skills contribute to your personal life. You become better at managing life's uncertainties and hurdles. You make informed decisions in managing finances or resolving conflicts in relationships. Problem-solving skills help you in dealing with health issues. This leads to a more fulfilling life.

Successful problem-solving involves a series of key elements . They help navigate the problem-solving process effectively. Understanding these components is essential in refining your problem-solving abilities.

Analytical thinking is one of the most crucial elements. This aspect involves breaking down a complex problem into smaller, manageable parts. This allows for a clearer view of the issue. Analytical thinkers can dissect a situation. This helps them understand its different components and how they interact. This process leads to a more effective resolution.

Creativity is another critical component. It helps in generating a variety of alternative solutions to solve problems. Some of these may be unconventional yet effective. A creative problem solver can see beyond the obvious. They think outside the box, often finding unique paths to a solution

Adaptability is the element that ties the process together. In the face of a problem, circumstances can change in an instant. An adaptable problem solver is open to revising the course of action as needed. They learn from the process and improve their approach to solving a problem. They understand that the first solution may not always be the best one. They are willing to adjust their strategy in response to feedback and results

Combined, these elements form a robust problem-solving framework that enables individuals to tackle problems efficiently and effectively.

To improve your problem-solving skills, you can use various strategies. Each involves a different aspect of problem-solving. They enhance your ability to handle challenges effectively.

• Brainstorming: ⁠ ⁠Brainstorming is a creative process that encourages the generation of ideas without judgment. This process can help significantly enhance and expand your perspective. It can spur creative thinking, leading to unique solutions. During brainstorming sessions, remember to encourage free thinking and discourage criticism of ideas. ⁠
• Root Cause Analysis: ⁠ ⁠This strategy involves identifying the cause of a problem rather than addressing its symptoms. Techniques like the "5 Whys" or "Fishbone Diagram" can help you trace back the issue to its root. By understanding the main cause, you can ensure that your solution addresses the heart of the problem. This helps prevent the issue from recurring. ⁠
• Structured Problem-Solving Approaches: ⁠ ⁠There are various structured problem-solving methods you can use to enhance your skills. These include the "PDCA" (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle, "Six Sigma," and "8D Problem Solving." These approaches provide a systematic way to address problems. You consider every aspect of the issue and choose the most effective solution. ⁠
• Critical Thinking Exercises: ⁠ ⁠Activities like puzzles, quizzes, riddles, and logic games can improve your analytical thinking. This is a critical aspect of problem-solving. Such exercises stimulate your brain. They help you to develop logical reasoning and decision-making skills. ⁠
• Reflection and Learning: ⁠ ⁠After resolving a problem, take the time to reflect on the process. What worked? What didn't? What could you have done differently? Reflective learning helps you understand your problem-solving strengths and weaknesses. They guide you to improve in coming up with a potential solution to a problem.

Throughout history, individuals have showcased excellent problem-solving skills. Their ability to come up with solutions in challenging situations can serve as inspiration.

• Thomas Edison: ⁠ ⁠When inventing the lightbulb, Thomas Edison faced many failures. But he never gave up; instead, he viewed each failure as a step closer to success. He identified problems. He generated and tested solutions. He persisted in implementing them. These are shining examples of problem-solving skills.
• Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: ⁠ ⁠As a key figure in the Civil Rights Movement, Dr. King faced the problem of racial segregation. He applied creative problem-solving strategies. This includes peaceful protest and powerful speeches to effect significant social change.
• Malala Yousafzai: ⁠ ⁠Malala stood against the unjust education prohibition for girls in her region. She devised a suitable solution to raise global awareness about the issue. She displayed exceptional problem-solving skills.
• Elon Musk: ⁠ ⁠When founding SpaceX, Musk found out that space travel comes with exorbitant costs. Instead of giving up, he found a creative solution. He used reusable rockets. This lowered costs and made space travel more possible.

These individuals have demonstrated the power of problem-solving skills to overcome significant challenges. They innovate and effect positive change. These effective problem-solvers can inspire us to enhance our problem-solving abilities. We can apply them to our personal and professional lives.

Problem-solving skills are universal. But, developing them may need different strategies based on the context. It all depends on where you apply them. Here's how you can hone these skills in various domains:

• Academia: ⁠ ⁠In an academic setting, problem-solving skills are crucial for understanding complex concepts. They use problem-solving skills in conducting research and excelling in exams. You can develop these skills by engaging in active learning strategies. You can engage in group discussions, case studies, and simulations. Practising problem-solving exercises or mathematical puzzles can also strengthen your logical thinking. Taking part in debates can also enhance your ability to analyse different perspectives. This is a key aspect of problem-solving. ⁠
• Business: ⁠ ⁠Problem-solving is essential for strategic planning, decision-making, crisis management, and innovation in business. To enhance these skills, you can pursue professional development programs. Take part in programs that focus on critical thinking, decision-making, and project management. Participating in team brainstorming sessions or role-play exercises can also help. Learn from successful entrepreneurs and business leaders. Understand how they tackled challenges and come up with solutions. These can provide valuable insights. ⁠
• Personal Life: ⁠ ⁠Problem-solving skills come into play in our personal lives when managing finances. We also use these skills in resolving conflicts or planning life events. Controlling your emotions can enhance your ability to solve a problem. Mindfulness exercises and meditation can help improve the control of our emotions. These exercises reduce impulsive decision-making. Read self-help books or attend personal development workshops. These can also provide practical strategies to handle common personal problems. Maintain a journal. This can help you reflect on your problem-solving process. This can also help you learn from past experiences.
• Leadership Roles: ⁠ ⁠Leaders are often faced with complex problems that need effective resolution. You can attend leadership development programs that focus on problem-solving. These help enhance your decision-making and strategic planning. They also improve your analytical skills. Mentors or executive coaches can also provide personalised guidance to enhance these skills. Leaders can also adopt a learning mindset. These enable them to see every challenge as an opportunity to learn and improve.

Remember, enhancing problem-solving skills is a continuous process. It requires practise, reflection, and patience. Regardless of the context, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth can go a long way in becoming a proficient problem solver.

Problem-solving skills are integral to both personal and professional success. They enable us to navigate the complexities of life. They allow us to find solutions to the challenges we face. They help us make informed decisions that align with our goals. From enhancing creativity and decision-making abilities to improving communication and fostering innovation, the value of strong problem-solving skills is vast and varied.

Moreover, these skills are not stagnant; you can enhance and improve your problem-solving skills. We can improve our capabilities to solve problems through brainstorming sessions, or structured problem-solving methods. We can do critical thinking exercises. We can look at real-life examples of individuals who used exceptional skills to solve a problem. They serve as powerful reminders of what we can achieve. They show us what we can do when we approach challenges with determination, creativity, and a strategic mindset.

In the end, remember that every problem we encounter is a stepping stone. It is an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve. By embracing this perspective and actively working to enhance our problem-solving abilities, we empower ourselves to successfully navigate whatever challenges come our way.

⁠Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What Are Problem-Solving Skills? ⁠⁠Problem-solving skills are a collection of cognitive abilities. They allow a person to effectively identify, analyse, and resolve problems. These skills encompass a range of competencies. These include analytical thinking, creative ideation, strategic decision-making, and efficient execution. ⁠
• Understanding the Meaning of Problem Solving Skills ⁠Problem-solving skills refer to the abilities that enable us to handle challenges, obstacles, and complex situations. This involves identifying the problem, generating possible solutions, evaluating the options, deciding on the most suitable one, and implementing it effectively. ⁠
• Importance of Problem Solving Skills in Everyday Life ⁠Problem-solving skills are invaluable in everyday life. They help us navigate life's uncertainties and manage conflicts. We use these skills in handling personal relationships or making informed financial decisions. These skills allow us to deal with various situations in a composed and rational manner. They equip us to adapt to changing circumstances, come up with solutions, and take calculated risks. All these contribute to personal growth and success. ⁠
• Enhancing Your Problem-Solving Abilities: Tips and Techniques ⁠Enhancing problem-solving abilities involves a mix of strategies. You can improve problem-solving skills by participating in brainstorming sessions to enhance creative thinking. You could use structured problem-solving techniques for a methodical approach. You could engage in critical thinking exercises to sharpen your analytical skills. You could practise mindfulness to control your emotions. Reflect and learn from past experiences. These also play a crucial role in developing problem-solving skills. ⁠
• Practical Examples of Problem-Solving Skills in Action ⁠Practical examples of problem-solving skills in action are aplenty. A business leader uses problem-solving skills to identify inefficient operations and devises an innovative alternative solution. A student uses analytical thinking to understand a complex concept. From historical figures like Thomas Edison to modern entrepreneurs like Elon Musk, individuals across various fields have demonstrated the power of problem-solving skills to overcome challenges, come up with solutions, and achieve remarkable success.

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7 Problem Solving Skills That Aren’t Just Buzzwords (+ Resume Example)

• Julia Mlcuchova , 
• Updated April 8, 2024 9 min read

Problem-solving skills are something everybody should include on their resume, yet only a few seem to understand what these skills actually are. If you've always felt that the term "problem-solving skills" is rather vague and wanted to know more, you've come to the right place.

In this article, we're going to explain what problem-solving skills really mean. We'll talk about what makes up good problem-solving skills and give you tips on how to get better at them. You'll also find out how to make your problem-solving abilities look more impressive to those who might want to hire you.

Sounds good, right? Curious to learn more? 

In this article we’ll show you:

• What are problem solving skills;
• Why are they important; 
• Specific problem solving skills examples;
• How to develop your problem solving skills;
• And, how to showcase them on your resume.

Table of Contents

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What are problem solving skills?

Why are problem solving skills important, the best 7 problem solving skills examples, how to develop problem solving skills, problem solving skills resume example, key takeaways: problem solving skills.

First of all, they're more than just a buzzword!

Problem-solving skills are a set of specific abilities that allow you to deal with unexpected situations in the workplace, whether it be job related or team related. 

It's a complex process that involves several “sub skills” or “sub steps,” namely:

• Recognizing and identifying the issue at hand.
• Breaking the problem down into smaller parts and analyzing how they relate to one another. 
• Creating potential solutions to the problem, evaluating them and picking the best one.  
• Applying the chosen solution and assessing its outcome. 
• Learning from the whole process to deal with future problems more effectively. 

As you can see, it's not just about solving problems that are right in front of us, but also about predicting potential issues and being prepared to deal with them before they arise.  

Despite what you may believe, problem-solving skills aren't just for managers . 

Think about it this way: Why do employers hire employees in the first place? To solve problems for them!

And, as we all know, problems don't discriminate. In other words, it doesn't matter whether you're just an intern, an entry-level professional, or a seasoned veteran, you'll constantly face some kind of challenges. And the only difference is in how complex they will get.

This is also reflected in the way employers assess suitability of potential job candidates. 

In fact, research shows that the ability to deal with unexpected complications is prioritized by an overwhelming 60% of employers across all industries, making it one of the most compelling skills on your resume.

So, regardless of your job description or your career level, you're always expected to find solutions for problems, either independently or as a part of a team. 

And that's precisely what makes problem-solving skills so invaluable and universal ! 

Wondering how good is your resume?

Find out with our AI Resume Checker! Just upload your resume and see what can be improved.

As we've said before, problem-solving isn't really just one single skill. 

Instead, your ability to handle workplace issues with composure depends on several different “sub-skills”. 

So, which specific skills make an employee desirable even for the most demanding of recruiters? 

In no particular order, you should focus on these 7 skills : 

• Analytical skills
• Research skills
• Critical thinking 
• Decision-making
• Collaboration
• Having a growth mindset

Let's have a look at each of them in greater detail!

#1 Analytical skills

Firstly, to truly understand complex problems, you need to break them down into more manageable parts . Then, you observe them closely and ask yourself: “ Which parts work and which don't,” How do these parts contribute to the problem as a whole,” and "What exactly needs to be fixed?” In other words, you gather data , you study it, and compare it - all to pinpoint the cause of the issue as closely as possible.

#2 Research skills

Another priceless tool is your research skills (sometimes relying on just one source of information isn't enough). Besides, to make a truly informed decision , you'll have to dig a little deeper. Being a good researcher means looking for potential solutions to a problem in a wider context. For example: going through team reports, customer feedback, quarterly sales or current market trends.  

#3 Critical thinking

Every employer wants to hire people who can think critically. Yet, the ability to evaluate situations objectively and from different perspectives , is actually pretty hard to come by. But as long as you stay open-minded, inquisitive, and with a healthy dose of skepticism, you'll be able to assess situations based on facts and evidence more successfully. Plus, critical thinking comes in especially handy when you need to examine your own actions and processes. 

 #4 Creativity

Instead of following the old established processes that don't work anymore, you should feel comfortable thinking outside the box. The thing is, problems have a nasty habit of popping up unexpectedly and rapidly. And sometimes, you have to get creative in order to solve them fast. Especially those that have no precedence. But this requires a blend of intuition, industry knowledge, and quick thinking - a truly rare combination. 

#5 Decision-making

The analysis, research, and brainstorming are done. Now, you need to look at the possible solutions, and make the final decision (informed, of course). And not only that, you also have to stand by it ! Because once the train gets moving, there's no room for second guessing. Also, keep in mind that you need to be prepared to take responsibility for all decisions you make. That's no small feat! 

#6 Collaboration

Not every problem you encounter can be solved by yourself alone. And this is especially true when it comes to complex projects. So, being able to actively listen to your colleagues, take their ideas into account, and being respectful of their opinions enables you to solve problems together. Because every individual can offer a unique perspective and skill set. Yes, democracy is hard, but at the end of the day, it's teamwork that makes the corporate world go round. 

#7 Having a growth mindset

Let's be honest, no one wants their work to be riddled with problems. But facing constant challenges and changes is inevitable. And that can be scary! However, when you're able to see these situations as opportunities to grow instead of issues that hold you back, your problem solving skills reach new heights. And the employers know that too!

Now that we've shown you the value problem-solving skills can add to your resume, let's ask the all-important question: “How can I learn them?”

Well…you can't. At least not in the traditional sense of the word. 

Let us explain: Since problem-solving skills fall under the umbrella of soft skills , they can't be taught through formal education, unlike computer skills for example. There's no university course that you can take and graduate as a professional problem solver. 

But, just like other interpersonal skills, they can be nurtured and refined over time through practice and experience. 

Unfortunately, there's no one-size-fits-all approach, but the following tips can offer you inspiration on how to improve your problem solving skills:

• Cultivate a growth mindset. Remember what we've said before? Your attitude towards obstacles is the first step to unlocking your problem-solving potential. 
• Gain further knowledge in your specialized field. Secondly, it's a good idea to delve a little deeper into your chosen profession. Because the more you read on a subject, the easier it becomes to spot certain patterns and relations.  
• Start with small steps. Don't attack the big questions straight away — you'll only set yourself up for failure. Instead, start with more straightforward tasks and work your way up to more complex problems. 
• Break problems down into more digestible pieces. Complex issues are made up of smaller problems. And those can be further divided into even smaller problems, and so on. Until you're left with only the basics. 
• Don't settle for a single solution. Instead, keep on exploring other possible answers.
• Accept failure as a part of the learning process. Finally, don't let your failures discourage you. After all, you're bound to misstep a couple of times before you find your footing. Just keep on practicing. 

How to improve problem solving skills with online courses

While it’s true that formal education won’t turn you into a master problem solver, you can still hone your skills with courses and certifications offered by online learning platforms :

• Analytical skills. You can sharpen your analytical skills with Data Analytics Basics for Everyone from IBM provided by edX (Free); or Decision Making and Analytical Thinking: Fortune 500 provided by Udemy (＄21,74).
• Creativity. And, to unlock your inner creative mind, you can try Creative Thinking: Techniques and Tools for Success from the Imperial College London provided by Coursera (Free).
• Critical thinking. Try Introduction to Logic and Critical Thinking Specialization from Duke University provided by Coursera (Free); or Logical and Critical Thinking offered by The University of Auckland via FutureLearn.  
• Decision-making. Or, you can learn how to become more confident when it's time to make a decision with Decision-Making Strategies and Executive Decision-Making both offered by LinkedIn Learning (1 month free trial).
• Communication skills . Lastly, to improve your collaborative skills, check out Communicating for Influence and Impact online at University of Cambridge. 

The fact that everybody and their grandmothers put “ problem-solving skills ” on their CVs has turned the phrase into a cliche. 

But there's a way to incorporate these skills into your resume without sounding pretentious and empty. Below, we've prepared a mock-up resume that manages to do just that.

FYI, if you like this design, you can use the template to create your very own resume. Just click the red button and fill in your information (or let the AI do it for you).

Problem solving skills on resume example

This resume was written by our experienced resume writers specifically for this profession.

Why this example works?

• Firstly, the job description itself is neatly organized into bullet points .  
• Instead of simply listing soft skills in a skills section , you can incorporate them into the description of your work experience entry.  
• Also, the language here isn't vague . This resume puts each problem-solving skill into a real-life context by detailing specific situations and obstacles. 
• And, to highlight the impact of each skill on your previous job position, we recommend quantifying your results whenever possible. 
• Finally, starting each bullet point with an action verb (in bold) makes you look more dynamic and proactive.

To sum it all up, problem-solving skills continue gaining popularity among employers and employees alike. And for a good reason!

Because of them, you can overcome any obstacles that stand in the way of your professional life more efficiently and systematically. 

In essence, problem-solving skills refer to the ability to recognize a challenge, identify its root cause, think of possible solutions , and then implement the most effective one. 

Believing that these skills are all the same would be a serious misconception. In reality, this term encompasses a variety of different abilities , including:

In short, understanding, developing, and showcasing these skills, can greatly boost your chances at getting noticed by the hiring managers. So, don't hesitate and start working on your problem-solving skills right now!

Julia has recently joined Kickresume as a career writer. From helping people with their English to get admitted to the uni of their dreams to advising them on how to succeed in the job market. It would seem that her career is on a steadfast trajectory. Julia holds a degree in Anglophone studies from Metropolitan University in Prague, where she also resides. Apart from creative writing and languages, she takes a keen interest in literature and theatre.

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How to develop a problem-solving mindset

May 14, 2023 Leaders today are confronted with more problems, of greater magnitude, than ever before. In these volatile times, it’s natural to react based on what’s worked best in the past. But when you’re solving the toughest business challenges on an ongoing basis, it’s crucial to start from a place of awareness. “If you are in an uncertain situation, the most important thing you can do is calm down,” says senior partner Aaron De Smet , who coauthored Deliberate Calm  with Jacqueline Brassey  and Michiel Kruyt. “Take a breath. Take stock. ‘Is the thing I’m about to do the right thing to do?’ And in many cases, the answer is no. If you were in a truly uncertain environment, if you’re in new territory, the thing you would normally do might not be the right thing.” Practicing deliberate calm not only prepares you to deal with the toughest problems, but it enhances the quality of your decisions, makes you more productive, and enables you to be a better leader. Check out these insights to learn how to develop a problem-solving mindset—and understand why the solution to any problem starts with you.

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Problem-Solving Mastery: Your Roadmap to Effective Solutions

• Job Skills , Life skills , Soft skills

In today’s rapidly evolving world, problem-solving skills have become more critical. The ability to identify, analyze, and find effective solutions to complex challenges is highly valued across various domains, including education, business, and personal life. Problem-solving skills empower individuals to overcome obstacles, make informed decisions, and confidently navigate uncertain situations. They are key personal and professional success drivers, enabling individuals to adapt to change, innovate, and seize opportunities.

This article will delve into the essential steps for mastering problem-solving skills. We will explore the characteristics of effective problem solvers and highlight the step-by-step process they follow to tackle problems. From defining the problem and gathering information to evaluating solutions and implementing the chosen course of action, we will cover each stage in detail, providing valuable insights and practical strategies. Additionally, we will discuss various techniques and tools that can enhance problem-solving abilities and address common challenges individuals encounter. Whether you are a student, professional, or simply looking to enhance your problem-solving skills, this article will serve as a comprehensive guide to equip you with the necessary knowledge and techniques to become a proficient problem solver.

Understanding Problem Solving

A. definition of problem-solving.

Problem-solving is a fundamental skill applicable across diverse academic, professional, and personal contexts. It plays a crucial role in business, science, engineering, and everyday life, enabling individuals to overcome obstacles, achieve goals, and improve outcomes.

Here are some definitions with sources-

“Problem-solving is the cognitive process of identifying, analyzing, and resolving obstacles or difficulties encountered to achieve a desired goal or outcome.”

  Source: – Simon, H. A. (1972). Theories of Bounded Rationality. Decision and Organization, 1(1), 161-176.

  “Problem-solving refers to the systematic approach of finding solutions to challenges by utilizing logical thinking, analytical skills, and creativity.”

Source: – D’Zurilla, T. J., & Nezu, A. M. (2007). Problem-Solving Therapy: A Positive Approach to Clinical Intervention. Springer Publishing Company.

  “Problem-solving is the cognitive process of identifying, analyzing, and overcoming obstacles through the application of problem-solving strategies, critical thinking , and decision-making skills.”

Source: – Fogler, H. S., LeBlanc, S. E., & Rizzo, E. (2020). Strategies for Creative Problem Solving. Pearson.

“Problem-solving involves the ability to define problems, generate potential solutions, evaluate alternatives, and implement the best course of action, resulting in effective decision making and successful resolution of challenges.”

Source: –  Bransford, J. D., Brown, A. L., & Cocking, R. R. (2000). How People Learn: Brain, Mind, Experience, and School : Expanded Edition. National Academies Press.

B. The role of problem-solving in personal and professional life

The Role of Problem-Solving in Personal and Professional Life:

1. Personal Life:

   a. Decision Making: Problem-solving is crucial in making informed decisions about personal matters, such as career choices, relationships, and financial planning.

   b. Resolving Conflicts: Effective problem-solving skills help resolve conflicts and disputes, fostering healthier relationships and communication.

   c. Adaptability: Problem-solving enables individuals to navigate life’s challenges and adapt to changing circumstances, enhancing personal growth and resilience.

   d. Goal Achievement: By identifying obstacles and finding solutions, problem-solving helps individuals overcome barriers and progress towards achieving personal goals.

2. Professional Life:

   a. Innovation and Creativity: Problem-solving is at the core of innovation, enabling individuals to identify opportunities, develop new ideas, and implement creative solutions.

   b. Decision Making: Effective problem-solving skills aid in making sound business decisions, analyzing data, and evaluating options to achieve desired outcomes.

   c. Troubleshooting and Crisis Management : Problem-solving is crucial in addressing workplace issues, identifying root causes, and implementing solutions to operational challenges and crises.

   d. Collaboration and Teamwork: Problem-solving skills facilitate effective collaboration and teamwork, as individuals work together to analyze problems, generate ideas, and implement solutions.

   e. Continuous Improvement: By identifying inefficiencies and finding better solutions, problem-solving drives continuous improvement in processes, products, and services.

   f. Leadership: Strong problem-solving abilities are essential for effective leadership, as leaders navigate complex situations, inspire teams, and drive organizational success.

Overall, problem-solving is vital in personal and professional life, empowering individuals to overcome obstacles, make informed decisions, foster innovation, and achieve desired outcomes. It promotes adaptability, resilience, and growth, enhancing overall success and satisfaction in various aspects of life.

Characteristics of Effective Problem Solvers

Here are some Characteristics of Effective Problem Solvers:

1. Critical Thinking: Effective problem solvers possess strong critical thinking skills. They can analyze situations objectively, evaluate information, identify patterns, and make logical connections to understand the underlying causes of problems.

2. Analytical Skills: Effective problem solvers can break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable components. They can examine each component individually, identify relevant factors, and assess their interrelationships to understand the problem comprehensively.

3. Creativity and Innovative Thinking: Effective problem solvers think outside the box and are open to unconventional ideas and solutions. They approach problems creatively, seeking new perspectives, alternative approaches, and innovative solutions.

4. Persistence and Resilience: Effective problem solvers persevere when facing obstacles and setbacks. They are resilient and maintain a positive attitude, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning rather than insurmountable barriers.

5. Adaptability and Flexibility: Effective problem solvers are adaptable and flexible in their thinking and approach. They are open to adjusting their strategies, considering different viewpoints, and embracing change as they navigate complex problem-solving situations.

6. Systems Thinking: Effective problem solvers consider the larger context and understand the interconnectedness of various factors. They can see how different elements within a system influence each other and recognize the ripple effects of their decisions and actions.

7. Collaboration and Communication: Effective problem solvers are skilled in collaboration and communication. They actively listen to others, seek input and feedback, and can articulate their thoughts and ideas clearly. They can work well in teams, leveraging diverse perspectives and expertise to find optimal solutions.

8. Decision Making: Effective problem solvers are proficient in decision-making . They gather relevant information, weigh different options, assess risks and benefits, and make informed choices based on a logical and rational evaluation process.

9. Continuous Learning: Effective problem solvers have a growth mindset and a thirst for knowledge. They actively seek opportunities to learn new skills, expand their knowledge base, and stay updated on industry trends and advancements.

10. Emotional Intelligence: Effective problem solvers possess emotional intelligence, allowing them to understand and manage their emotions and empathize with others. They can navigate interpersonal dynamics, handle conflicts constructively, and foster positive relationships while solving problems.

These characteristics collectively contribute to the effectiveness of problem solvers, enabling them to approach challenges with a systematic, innovative, and resilient mindset, ultimately leading to successful problem resolution and achieving desired outcomes.

The Problem-Solving Process

Here is The Problem-Solving Process Step by Step:

Step 1: Defining the Problem:

1. Identifying the root cause: To effectively solve a problem, it’s important to identify the underlying cause or causes. This involves digging deeper to understand the factors or circumstances that led to the problem’s occurrence.

2. Clarifying the desired outcome: Clearly defining the desired outcome provides a clear direction for problem-solving. It helps in setting goals and measuring the success of the solution.

Step 2: Gathering information and analyzing the situation:

1. Collecting relevant data and facts: Gathering relevant data and facts about the problem is crucial for making informed decisions. This involves collecting information from reliable sources, conducting surveys, interviews, or analyzing existing data.

2. Conducting research and seeking different perspectives: Researching the problem and seeking different perspectives allows for a comprehensive understanding of the situation. This may involve studying case studies, consulting experts, or getting insights from people who have faced similar challenges.

Step 3: Generating potential solutions:

1. Brainstorming techniques: Brainstorming involves generating many ideas without judgment. It encourages creativity and open-mindedness, allowing for the exploration of various solutions.

2. Considering multiple options: Considering multiple options helps in expanding the range of possibilities. It involves evaluating different approaches, strategies, or alternatives to find the most effective solution.

Step 4: Evaluating and selecting the best solution:

1. Assessing pros and cons: Evaluating the potential solutions involves assessing their advantages and disadvantages. This helps in understanding the potential benefits and drawbacks of each option.

2. Using decision-making tools and techniques: Decision-making tools and techniques, such as decision matrices, cost-benefit analysis, or SWOT analysis, can provide a structured approach to evaluating and comparing different solutions. They help in making an informed decision.

Step 5: Implementing the chosen solution:

1. Developing an action plan: A detailed action plan outlines the steps and tasks needed to implement the chosen solution. It includes setting deadlines, assigning responsibilities, and allocating necessary resources.

2. Overcoming potential obstacles: Anticipating potential obstacles and challenges helps develop contingency plans. By identifying potential barriers in advance, proactive measures can be taken to overcome them and ensure a smoother implementation process.

Step 6: Monitoring and evaluating the outcomes:

1. Assessing the solution’s effectiveness: Regularly monitoring and evaluating the outcomes of the implemented solution is crucial. This involves measuring the results against the desired outcome and assessing whether the solution effectively addresses the problem.

2. Making adjustments if necessary: If the desired outcomes are not achieved or new issues arise, it may be necessary to adjust the solution or implementation plan. This ensures continuous improvement and adaptability throughout the problem-solving process.

By following this step-by-step process, individuals and teams can approach problem-solving systematically and comprehensively, increasing the chances of finding effective solutions and achieving desired outcomes.

Techniques and Strategies for Effective Problem Solving

Here are some Techniques and Strategies for Effective Problem Solving:

A. SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats):

SWOT analysis is a widely used technique for understanding a situation or organization’s internal strengths and weaknesses and the external opportunities and threats it faces. It involves identifying and analyzing these four factors to gain insights into the current state and potential future scenarios. One can effectively capitalize on opportunities and mitigate threats by understanding strengths and weaknesses.

B. Root cause analysis:

Root cause analysis is a technique used to identify the underlying cause or causes of a problem. It involves digging deeper into the problem to determine the fundamental reasons for its occurrence. By identifying and addressing the root cause, rather than just treating symptoms, one can prevent the problem from recurring and find long-term solutions.

C. Pareto analysis:

Pareto analysis, also known as the 80/20 rule, is a technique that helps prioritize tasks or issues based on their significance. It involves identifying the vital few (20%) contributing to the majority (80%) of the problem. One can achieve the greatest impact with limited resources by focusing efforts on addressing the most significant factors.

D. Six Thinking Hats technique:

The Six Thinking Hats technique, developed by Edward de Bono, is a method for approaching problem-solving from different perspectives. Each “hat” represents a different thinking mode or mindset, such as logical, creative, critical, etc. By consciously adopting these different perspectives, individuals or teams can explore different angles, consider various factors, and enhance problem-solving.

E. Design thinking approach:

The design thinking approach is a human-centered problem-solving methodology. It emphasizes empathy, collaboration, and experimentation to understand the user’s needs, ideate innovative solutions, and iterate through prototypes. It involves several stages, including empathizing with users, defining the problem, ideating potential solutions, prototyping, and testing. This approach encourages a creative and iterative problem-solving process that delivers solutions meeting user needs.

By utilizing these techniques and strategies for effective problem-solving, individuals and teams can enhance their problem-solving capabilities, think more critically and creatively, and arrive at comprehensive and innovative solutions to address various challenges.

Overcoming Common Challenges in Problem-Solving 

Now we discuss how to overcome Common Challenges in Problem-Solving:

A. Emotional barriers and biases:

1. Self-awareness: Recognize and acknowledge your emotions and biases that may hinder the problem-solving process.

2. Objective perspective: Strive to approach problems with an open mind and consider alternative viewpoints.

3. Seek feedback: Involve others in problem-solving to gain diverse perspectives and challenge your biases.

B. Fear of failure and risk aversion:

1. Embrace a growth mindset: View failures as learning opportunities and be open to taking calculated risks.

2. Break problems into smaller steps: Breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable tasks can help reduce the Fear of failure.

3. Experiment and iterate: Implement solutions in iterative stages, allowing for adjustments and learning from setbacks.

C. Lack of communication and collaboration:

1. Active listening: Listen attentively to others’ perspectives, fostering effective communication and understanding.

2. Encourage participation: Create a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable contributing ideas and insights.

3. Foster teamwork: Promote collaboration and establish clear roles and responsibilities within problem-solving teams.

D. Ineffective time management:

1. Prioritize tasks: Identify the most critical aspects of the problem and allocate time accordingly.

2. Set deadlines and milestones: Establish specific deadlines for each step of the problem-solving process to stay on track.

3. Avoid distractions: Minimize interruptions and focus on the task by creating a conducive work environment.

By addressing these common problem-solving challenges, individuals and teams can enhance their problem-solving effectiveness and achieve better outcomes. Overcoming emotional barriers and biases, embracing risk-taking, fostering effective communication and collaboration, and managing time efficiently are key factors in successful problem-solving endeavors. By developing strategies to tackle these challenges, individuals can unlock their problem-solving potential and approach challenges with confidence and resilience.

Developing Problem-Solving Skills 

Is it possible to develop problem-solving skills? Yes, it is possible. But How? 

A. Continuous learning and skill development:

1. Stay curious: Cultivate a continuous learning mindset by seeking new knowledge, exploring different perspectives, and staying updated on industry trends.

2. Acquire relevant knowledge: Develop a solid foundation in the areas relevant to problem-solving, such as critical thinking, analytical skills, creativity, and decision-making.

3. Pursue professional development: Attend workshops, training programs, and online courses on problem-solving techniques and strategies.

B. Seeking feedback and reflection:

1. Welcome constructive criticism: Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or supervisors to gain insights into areas for improvement in your problem-solving approach.

2. Reflect on past experiences: Evaluate your problem-solving efforts, identify strengths and weaknesses, and learn from your successes and failures.

3. Develop self-awareness: Understand your thinking patterns, biases, and emotional reactions to improve your problem-solving skills.

C. Practicing problem-solving exercises and scenarios:

1. Solve puzzles and brain teasers: Engage in activities that challenge your problem-solving abilities, such as puzzles, riddles, or logic games.

2. Simulate problem-solving scenarios: Create hypothetical problem-solving situations and brainstorm potential solutions to enhance your critical thinking and decision-making skills.

3. Participate in group problem-solving activities: Collaborate with others in problem-solving exercises or workshops to foster teamwork and develop effective communication skills.

D. Engaging in real-life problem-solving experiences:

1. Embrace challenges: Seek opportunities to tackle real-world problems, whether at work, in personal projects, or community initiatives.

2. Apply problem-solving techniques: Utilize the problem-solving process and relevant strategies to address issues encountered in various aspects of life.

3. Learn from experiences: Reflect on your problem-solving approach in real-life situations, identify areas of improvement, and adjust your strategies accordingly.

Developing problem-solving skills is an ongoing process that requires continuous learning, practice, and application in both simulated and real-life scenarios. By investing time and effort in skill development, seeking feedback, reflecting on experiences, and engaging in problem-solving activities, individuals can strengthen their problem-solving abilities and effectively address complex challenges.

Applying Problem-Solving Skills in Different Areas

Now we will discuss Applying Problem-Solving Skills in Different Areas:

A. Problem-solving in the workplace:

Problem-solving skills are highly valuable in the workplace as they enable individuals to address challenges, make informed decisions, and contribute to organizational success. In a professional setting, problem-solving involves identifying and analyzing issues, generating effective solutions, and implementing them to achieve desired outcomes. It often requires collaboration, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving techniques. Effective problem-solving in the workplace can lead to increased productivity, improved teamwork, and innovation.

B. Problem-solving in personal relationships:

Problem-solving skills play a crucial role in maintaining healthy and constructive personal relationships. Conflicts and challenges are inevitable with family members, friends, or romantic partners. Applying problem-solving skills in personal relationships involves active listening, empathy, and open communication. It requires identifying and understanding the issues, finding common ground, and working towards mutually beneficial solutions. Problem-solving in personal relationships helps build trust, strengthen connections, and promote harmony.

C. Problem-solving in entrepreneurship:

Problem-solving is an essential skill for entrepreneurs, as it drives innovation and the ability to identify and seize opportunities. Entrepreneurs face various challenges, such as market competition, resource constraints, and changing customer needs. Applying problem-solving skills in entrepreneurship involves identifying market gaps, analyzing customer pain points, and developing innovative solutions. Entrepreneurs must be adaptable, resilient, and creative in finding solutions that address real-world problems and create customer value.

D. Problem-solving in everyday life:

Problem-solving skills are not limited to specific areas but are applicable in everyday life. From simple tasks to complex decisions, problem-solving helps navigate challenges efficiently. Everyday problem-solving involves assessing situations, setting goals, considering available resources, and making informed choices. It can range from troubleshooting technology issues to managing personal finances, resolving conflicts, or finding solutions to logistical problems. Developing problem-solving skills in everyday life leads to increased self-confidence, improved decision-making abilities, and overall personal effectiveness.

In all these areas, applying problem-solving skills enables individuals to approach challenges with a structured and analytical mindset, find practical solutions, and overcome obstacles effectively. It empowers individuals to think critically, adapt to changing circumstances, and positively contribute to various aspects of their lives.

Case Studies of Successful Problem Solving

Here are some Case Studies of Successful Problem Solving:

A. Real-life examples of problem-solving success stories:

1. NASA’s Apollo 13 Mission: The Apollo 13 mission faced a critical problem when an oxygen tank exploded, jeopardizing the lives of the astronauts. Through collaborative problem-solving, the NASA team on the ground and the astronauts in space worked together to develop innovative solutions, such as building a makeshift CO2 filter, conserving power, and navigating a safe return to Earth.

2. Apple’s iPhone Development: Apple faced the challenge of creating a revolutionary smartphone that combined multiple functions in a user-friendly design. Through rigorous problem-solving, Apple’s team developed groundbreaking solutions, such as the touch screen interface, intuitive user experience, and integration of various technologies, leading to the successful launch of the iPhone.

3. Toyota’s Lean Manufacturing System: Toyota encountered production inefficiencies and quality issues. By implementing problem-solving techniques, such as the Toyota Production System, the company focused on waste reduction, continuous improvement, and empowering employees to identify and solve problems. This increased productivity, improved quality, and a competitive advantage in the automotive industry.

B. Analysis of the problem-solving strategies employed:

1. Collaborative Problem-Solving: Successful problem-solving often involves collaboration among individuals or teams. Organizations can tackle complex challenges more effectively by leveraging diverse perspectives, knowledge, and skills.

2. Innovative Thinking: Problem-solving success stories often involve innovative thinking to address issues in novel ways. This may include exploring new technologies, challenging conventional wisdom, or adopting creative approaches that disrupt the status quo.

3. Systematic Approach: Effective problem-solving requires a systematic approach that involves defining the problem, gathering relevant information, analyzing options, and implementing solutions. This structured method provides a comprehensive understanding of the problem and helps identify the most appropriate action.

4. Continuous Improvement: Many successful problem-solving cases are committed to continuous improvement. Organizations embracing a learning and adaptability culture are better equipped to identify and solve problems efficiently, leading to long-term success.

5. Customer-Centric Solutions: Problem-solving strategies that prioritize understanding and meeting customer needs tend to yield successful outcomes. Organizations can develop solutions that deliver value and drive customer satisfaction by placing the customer at the center of problem-solving efforts.

Analyzing the problem-solving strategies employed in these case studies provides valuable insights into the approaches, techniques, and mindsets that contribute to successful problem resolution. It highlights the importance of collaboration, innovation, systematic thinking, continuous improvement, and customer focus in achieving positive outcomes.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, problem-solving skills are vital in various aspects of life, including personal, professional, and entrepreneurial endeavors. Through this article, we have explored the importance of problem-solving, its Definition, its role in different areas, characteristics of effective problem solvers, the problem-solving process, and techniques for effective problem-solving. We have also examined case studies of successful problem-solving and analyzed the strategies employed.

Recap of key points:

1. Problem-solving skills are crucial for personal, professional, and entrepreneurial success.

2. Effective problem solvers possess critical thinking, creativity, adaptability, and perseverance.

3. The problem-solving process involves defining the problem, gathering information, generating solutions, evaluating options, implementing the chosen solution, and monitoring outcomes.

4. Techniques like SWOT analysis, root cause analysis, Pareto analysis, Six Thinking Hats, and design thinking provide valuable frameworks for problem-solving.

As you have learned about the importance and various aspects of problem-solving, I encourage you to apply these skills in your own life. Problem-solving is not a mere intellectual exercise but a practical tool that can lead to personal growth, professional success, and positive societal contributions. Developing and honing your problem-solving abilities allows you to navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and find innovative solutions.

Embrace a continuous improvement mindset and a willingness to think outside the box. Seek opportunities to apply problem-solving skills in your relationships, workplace, entrepreneurial ventures, and everyday life. Remember that each challenge presents an opportunity for growth and learning. You can overcome obstacles and achieve desired outcomes by approaching problems with a structured and analytical mindset, considering multiple perspectives, and employing effective problem-solving techniques.

Incorporate problem-solving into your daily life and encourage others to do the same. By doing so, you contribute to a more proactive and solution-oriented society. Remember, problem-solving is a skill that can be developed and refined through practice and experience. So, take on challenges, embrace creativity, and be a proactive problem solver.

Start applying problem-solving skills today, and you will witness the positive impact it can have on your life and the lives of those around you.

Why robust problem solving is more than a couple tools

ARTICLE – You need to have a solid and complete process in place if you want your problems to be actually solved, and it is more than just developing an A3 or drawing an Ishikawa.

Words: Malgorzata Jakubik and Robert Kagan , Lean Enterprise Institute Polska

As no true lean person should walk by waste and ignore a chance for improvement, we felt the need to put together our reflections on things big and small that, while working with our customers, we have found to be common “speed bumps” or even show stoppers in a lean implementation. Whether systemic or tool-related, these obstacles have one thing in common: they tell our “war stories,” which we want to share with those on the road to lean, hoping they will warn them against frequent hazards others have struggled with.

EVERYBODY IS SOLVING PROBLEMS, BUT ONLY A FEW SUCCEED

-  A PROBLEM SOLVING PROCESS IS A LOT MORE THAN A COUPLE OF TOOLS AND A PROCEDURE -

One of our long-time customers likes to say (and repeat over and over again) that there is only one thing he can always find enough of in his plant – problems! He is not complaining, just stating a fact and voicing the conviction shared by many of his fellow plant managers. Their busy lives are all about learning to swim in an ocean of problems. Do we really have to feel tossed around, at a mercy of this ocean? Can we not manage our problems better and learn to be in control of them, acting proactively instead of just reacting to what is happening with our processes and products?

No doubt about it in the lean world – structured problem solving is important. The less we fire-fight, the more we can focus on root cause analysis. The more people at all levels we involve in the process, the better off we are.

The key ingredients of a solid problem solving process seem obvious – it has to be transparent, easy to understand, flexible and effective. It has to be. But is it always? The not-so-good processes described below suggest it is not. Let’s consider them for a moment and then talk about the core of the issue: how complete the problem solving process is, or isn’t.

Case 1 – “We have elements of the process in place, but do we have an actual process?”

The plant gets a new Production Manager, who is all charged up to prove himself and reach the ambitious targets he has been given – productivity needs to go up by 20%, lead-time down by 30%. He soon finds out that he won’t be able to do anything without eliminating the fire-fighting attitude that his people have towards problem solving. He actually cannot understand why they are not solving problems well. All that he would expect from the process seems to be in place: 80% of the people have been trained in it; they know Ishikawa; they know 5 whys; they have even been introduced to A3 reporting. “Get to work!” he orders, outlining his expectations very clearly.

And they did – problem-solving meetings were organized all over the plant, problem lists put up at every corner. That pleased the manager for a while. He pushed for more A3s. He pushed for better root causes analysis. He had a feeling he was driving the organization in the right direction.

Surprisingly, however, when he checked if the actions were bringing results, he realized that nothing had really changed. There was so much activity, but why was it not effective? What he found out was that problems were picked up and worked on, but the number of problems solved was not going up.  

What was going on? When pushed for action people rushed to collect problems, and that worked well. Then, they started problem solving on as many issues as they could find, but that did not go well. No organization has enough resources to deal with all of its problems - priorities must be defined. Additionally, people had tools, but did they know which one worked best with a specific problem? A3 is a great tool, but definitely not for every problem you come across. If you are expected to write a full-blown A3 report every time an issue is raised, you’d rather keep quiet or work around the problem. And people did.

Disappointed by the lack of progress, the Production Manager decided to stop and re-think his approach. He expected a lot from his people but how were they supposed to know which problems to start working on? Were they prepared to monitor the effectiveness of countermeasures? Did they know what problem-solving tool would work best for any given problem? “Well, we have elements of the process in place, but do not have a complete process! This is what we need to fix,” he concluded.

Case 2 – “No overtime, no extra people, no problems.”

Imagine a plant belonging to a large international corporation. Nothing happens by accident here: the problem solving process has been centrally defined and passed a test for completeness:

• Sources of problem identification have been defined;
• Problem selection criteria are established;
• People know who should do what;
• A number of suitable problem solving tools were available for people to use;
• Problems are visually tracked, with countermeasures checked for effectiveness and lessons spread across the organization.

Perfect, isn’t it? So perfect that the number of problems solved per day was going down at a steady rate. It looked good on paper, yet the overall results did not seem to back that trend.

Talking to employees quickly revealed underlying issues: “If I raise a problem, I will be the one tasked with solving it and I will not be given enough time to solve it. Why would I even want to talk about it? We were told clearly: no overtime, no extra people. And who has the time to train people in the use of the tools? We have to rely on those that were already trained last year. Our manager says it should be enough. Well, it isn’t. I won’t raise any issues, however - I will just get around them.”

Even the escalation of problems seemed to have stopped at manager level. The directors were just getting reports of the successful examples of problem solving. Good thing they were not getting news of how many problems returned after the initial solution, it would not have been a nice picture. Countermeasures were not being tracked for effectiveness long enough and somehow the scheduled audits of the problem solving process were conveniently forgotten and never happened.

This time, the process was there, but what about the discipline and managerial commitment that are needed to run it well?

Two cases, two stories of seemingly good approaches that did not work.

So, what should we focus on if we want to develop a working problem solving process? Here comes our two-fold advice:

• Make your problem solving process complete.

Define how it should work, give people a structure to help them make right decisions and make them quickly. It does take time and effort to define it well, but once there, it will pay you off quickly. To help you, here are the six elements of the complete system you need to worry about:

2. Make sure you plan resources for the process to work well:

• involve all levels of management in the process, every day and visibly;
• plan time and resources for problem solving, and don’t pretend that it will just get done “in the meantime;”
• audit the process, see if it solves problems at a root cause, so they do not return;
• learn from your problem solving – communicate the lessons, reflect and keep improving.

Are you among the good ones who get problems really solved? If that is the case – congratulations and keep up the good work. But if you struggle, maybe it is time to stop and think whether or not you have a complete process in place, and consider our advice.

This article is also available in Polish here

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What Are Problem-Solving Skills? Definition and Examples

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Forage puts students first. Our blog articles are written independently by our editorial team. They have not been paid for or sponsored by our partners. See our full  editorial guidelines .

Why do employers hire employees? To help them solve problems. Whether you’re a financial analyst deciding where to invest your firm’s money, or a marketer trying to figure out which channel to direct your efforts, companies hire people to help them find solutions. Problem-solving is an essential and marketable soft skill in the workplace. 

So, how can you improve your problem-solving and show employers you have this valuable skill? In this guide, we’ll cover:

Problem-Solving Skills Definition

Why are problem-solving skills important, problem-solving skills examples, how to include problem-solving skills in a job application, how to improve problem-solving skills, problem-solving: the bottom line.

Problem-solving skills are the ability to identify problems, brainstorm and analyze answers, and implement the best solutions. An employee with good problem-solving skills is both a self-starter and a collaborative teammate; they are proactive in understanding the root of a problem and work with others to consider a wide range of solutions before deciding how to move forward. 

Examples of using problem-solving skills in the workplace include:

• Researching patterns to understand why revenue decreased last quarter
• Experimenting with a new marketing channel to increase website sign-ups
• Brainstorming content types to share with potential customers
• Testing calls to action to see which ones drive the most product sales
• Implementing a new workflow to automate a team process and increase productivity

Problem-solving skills are the most sought-after soft skill of 2022. In fact, 86% of employers look for problem-solving skills on student resumes, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers Job Outlook 2022 survey . 

It’s unsurprising why employers are looking for this skill: companies will always need people to help them find solutions to their problems. Someone proactive and successful at problem-solving is valuable to any team.

“Employers are looking for employees who can make decisions independently, especially with the prevalence of remote/hybrid work and the need to communicate asynchronously,” Eric Mochnacz, senior HR consultant at Red Clover, says. “Employers want to see individuals who can make well-informed decisions that mitigate risk, and they can do so without suffering from analysis paralysis.”

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Problem-solving includes three main parts: identifying the problem, analyzing possible solutions, and deciding on the best course of action.

>>MORE: Discover the right career for you based on your skills with a career aptitude test .

Research is the first step of problem-solving because it helps you understand the context of a problem. Researching a problem enables you to learn why the problem is happening. For example, is revenue down because of a new sales tactic? Or because of seasonality? Is there a problem with who the sales team is reaching out to? 

Research broadens your scope to all possible reasons why the problem could be happening. Then once you figure it out, it helps you narrow your scope to start solving it. 

Analysis is the next step of problem-solving. Now that you’ve identified the problem, analytical skills help you look at what potential solutions there might be.

“The goal of analysis isn’t to solve a problem, actually — it’s to better understand it because that’s where the real solution will be found,” Gretchen Skalka, owner of Career Insights Consulting, says. “Looking at a problem through the lens of impartiality is the only way to get a true understanding of it from all angles.”

Decision-Making

Once you’ve figured out where the problem is coming from and what solutions are, it’s time to decide on the best way to go forth. Decision-making skills help you determine what resources are available, what a feasible action plan entails, and what solution is likely to lead to success.

On a Resume

Employers looking for problem-solving skills might include the word “problem-solving” or other synonyms like “ critical thinking ” or “analytical skills” in the job description.

“I would add ‘buzzwords’ you can find from the job descriptions or LinkedIn endorsements section to filter into your resume to comply with the ATS,” Matthew Warzel, CPRW resume writer, advises. Warzel recommends including these skills on your resume but warns to “leave the soft skills as adjectives in the summary section. That is the only place soft skills should be mentioned.”

On the other hand, you can list hard skills separately in a skills section on your resume .

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In a Cover Letter or an Interview

Explaining your problem-solving skills in an interview can seem daunting. You’re required to expand on your process — how you identified a problem, analyzed potential solutions, and made a choice. As long as you can explain your approach, it’s okay if that solution didn’t come from a professional work experience.

“Young professionals shortchange themselves by thinking only paid-for solutions matter to employers,” Skalka says. “People at the genesis of their careers don’t have a wealth of professional experience to pull from, but they do have relevant experience to share.”

Aaron Case, career counselor and CPRW at Resume Genius, agrees and encourages early professionals to share this skill. “If you don’t have any relevant work experience yet, you can still highlight your problem-solving skills in your cover letter,” he says. “Just showcase examples of problems you solved while completing your degree, working at internships, or volunteering. You can even pull examples from completely unrelated part-time jobs, as long as you make it clear how your problem-solving ability transfers to your new line of work.”

Learn How to Identify Problems

Problem-solving doesn’t just require finding solutions to problems that are already there. It’s also about being proactive when something isn’t working as you hoped it would. Practice questioning and getting curious about processes and activities in your everyday life. What could you improve? What would you do if you had more resources for this process? If you had fewer? Challenge yourself to challenge the world around you.

Think Digitally

“Employers in the modern workplace value digital problem-solving skills, like being able to find a technology solution to a traditional issue,” Case says. “For example, when I first started working as a marketing writer, my department didn’t have the budget to hire a professional voice actor for marketing video voiceovers. But I found a perfect solution to the problem with an AI voiceover service that cost a fraction of the price of an actor.”

Being comfortable with new technology — even ones you haven’t used before — is a valuable skill in an increasingly hybrid and remote world. Don’t be afraid to research new and innovative technologies to help automate processes or find a more efficient technological solution.

Collaborate

Problem-solving isn’t done in a silo, and it shouldn’t be. Use your collaboration skills to gather multiple perspectives, help eliminate bias, and listen to alternative solutions. Ask others where they think the problem is coming from and what solutions would help them with your workflow. From there, try to compromise on a solution that can benefit everyone.

If we’ve learned anything from the past few years, it’s that the world of work is constantly changing — which means it’s crucial to know how to adapt . Be comfortable narrowing down a solution, then changing your direction when a colleague provides a new piece of information. Challenge yourself to get out of your comfort zone, whether with your personal routine or trying a new system at work.

Put Yourself in the Middle of Tough Moments

Just like adapting requires you to challenge your routine and tradition, good problem-solving requires you to put yourself in challenging situations — especially ones where you don’t have relevant experience or expertise to find a solution. Because you won’t know how to tackle the problem, you’ll learn new problem-solving skills and how to navigate new challenges. Ask your manager or a peer if you can help them work on a complicated problem, and be proactive about asking them questions along the way.

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Companies always need people to help them find solutions — especially proactive employees who have practical analytical skills and can collaborate to decide the best way to move forward. Whether or not you have experience solving problems in a professional workplace, illustrate your problem-solving skills by describing your research, analysis, and decision-making process — and make it clear that you’re the solution to the employer’s current problems. 

Image Credit: Christina Morillo / Pexels 

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What Are Problem-Solving Skills? (Examples Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

Problem-solving skills are important not just for work. In the words of Karl Popper , “All life is problem-solving.”

What on earth does that mean? Simply that being alive means facing challenges. With problem-solving skills, you can navigate issues with greater ease, making hard times, well, less hard.

But what are problem-solving skills? How do you know if you have them or not? Why do they matter to your job search? And what should you do if you don’t feel yours are up to snuff? Luckily, we’re about to get into all of that.

If you’re curious about the world of problem-solving skills, here’s what you need to know.

What Are Problem-Solving Skills?

Before we dig into any examples, let’s focus first on an important question: what are problem-solving skills.

To answer that question, let’s start with the barebones basics. According to Merriam-Webster , problem-solving is “the process or act of finding a solution to a problem.” Why does that matter? Well, because it gives you insight into what problem-solving skills are.

Any skill that helps you find solutions to problems can qualify. And that means problem-solving skills aren’t just one capability, but a toolbox filled with soft skills and hard skills that come together during your time of need.

The ability to solve problems is relevant to any part of your life. Whether your writing a grocery list or dealing with a car that won’t start, you’re actually problem-solving.

The same is true at work, too. Most tasks actually involve a degree of problem-solving. Really? Really.

Think about it this way; when you’re given an assignment, you’re being asked, “Can you do this thing?” Doing that thing is the problem.

Then, you have to find a path that lets you accomplish what you need to do. That is problem-solving.

Yes, sometimes what you need to handle isn’t “challenging” in the difficulty sense. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t count.

Besides, some of what you need to do will legitimately be hard. Maybe you’re given a new responsibility, or something goes wrong during a project. When that happens, you’ll have to navigate unfamiliar territory, gather new information, and think outside of the box. That’s problem-solving, too.

That’s why hiring managers favor candidates with problem-solving skills. They make you more effective in your role, increasing the odds that you can find solutions whenever the need arises.

How Are Problem-Solving Skills Relevant to a Job Search?

Alright, you probably have a good idea of what problem-solving skills are. Now, it’s time to talk about why they matter to your job search.

We’ve already touched on one major point: hiring managers prefer candidates with strong problem-solving skills. That alone makes these capabilities a relevant part of the equation. If you don’t show the hiring manager you’ve got what it takes to excel, you may struggle to land a position.

But that isn’t the only reason these skills matter. Problem-solving skills can help you during the entire job search process. After all, what’s a job search but a problem – or a series of problems – that needs an answer.

You need a new job; that’s the core problem you’re solving. But every step is its own unique challenge. Finding an opening that matches your skills, creating a resume that resonates with the hiring manager, nailing the interview, and negotiating a salary … those are all smaller problems that are part of the bigger one.

So, problem-solving skills really are at the core of the job search experience. By having strong capabilities in this area, you may find a new position faster than you’d expect.

Okay, you may be thinking, “If hiring managers prefer candidates with problem-solving skills, which ones are they after? Are certain problem-solving capabilities more important today? Is there something I should be going out of my way to showcase?”

While any related skills are worth highlighting, some may get you further than others. Analysis, research, creativity, collaboration , organization, and decision-making are all biggies. With those skills, you can work through the entire problem-solving process, making them worthwhile additions to your resume.

But that doesn’t mean you have to focus there solely. Don’t shy away from showcasing everything you bring to the table. That way, if a particular hiring manager is looking for a certain capability, you’re more likely to tap on what they’re after.

How to Highlight Problem-Solving Skills for Job Search

At this point, it’s ridiculously clear that problem-solving skills are valuable in the eyes of hiring managers. So, how do you show them that you’ve got all of the capabilities they are after? By using the right approach.

When you’re writing your resume or cover letter , your best bet is to highlight achievements that let you put your problem-solving skills to work. That way, you can “show” the hiring manager you have what it takes.

Showing is always better than telling. Anyone can write down, “I have awesome problem-solving skills.” The thing is, that doesn’t really prove that you do. With a great example, you offer up some context, and that makes a difference.

How do you decide on which skills to highlight on your resume or cover letter? By having a great strategy. With the Tailoring Method , it’s all about relevancy. The technique helps you identify skills that matter to that particular hiring manager, allowing you to speak directly to their needs.

Plus, you can use the Tailoring Method when you answer job interview questions . With that approach, you’re making sure those responses are on-point, too.

But when do you talk about your problem-solving capabilities during an interview? Well, there’s a good chance you’ll get asked problem-solving interview questions during your meeting. Take a look at those to see the kinds of questions that are perfect for mentioning these skills.

However, you don’t have to stop there. If you’re asked about your greatest achievement or your strengths, those could be opportunities, too. Nearly any open-ended question could be the right time to discuss those skills, so keep that in mind as you practice for your interview.

How to Develop Problem-Solving Skills If You Don’t Have Them

Developing problem-solving skills may seem a bit tricky on the surface, especially if you think you don’t have them. The thing is, it doesn’t actually have to be hard. You simply need to use the right strategy.

First, understand that you probably do have problem-solving skills; you simply may not have realized it. After all, life is full of challenges that you have to tackle, so there’s a good chance you’ve developed some abilities along the way.

Now, let’s reframe the question and focus on how to improve your problem-solving skills. Here’s how to go about it.

Understand the Problem-Solving Process

In many cases, problem-solving is all about the process. You:

• Identify the problem
• Analyze the key elements
• Look for potential solutions
• Examine the options for viability and risk
• Decide on an approach
• Review the outcome for lessons

By understanding the core process, you can apply it more effectively. That way, when you encounter an issue, you’ll know how to approach it, increasing the odds you’ll handle the situation effectively.

Try Puzzles and Games

Any activity that lets you take the steps listed above could help you hone your problem-solving skills. For example, brainteasers, puzzles, and logic-based games can be great places to start.

Whether it’s something as straightforward – but nonetheless challenging – as Sudoku or a Rubik’s Cube, or something as complex as Settlers of Catan, it puts your problem-solving skills to work. Plus, if you enjoy the activity, it makes skill-building fun, making it a win-win.

Look for Daily Opportunities

If you’re looking for a practical approach, you’re in luck. You can also look at the various challenges you face during the day and think about how to overcome them.

For example, if you always experience a mid-day energy slump that hurts your productivity, take a deep dive into that problem. Define what’s happening, think about why it occurs, consider various solutions, pick one to try, and analyze the results.

By using the problem-solving approach more often in your life, you’ll develop those skills further and make using these capabilities a habit. Plus, you may find ways to improve your day-to-day living, which is a nice bonus.

Volunteer for “Stretch” Projects

If you’re currently employed, volunteering for projects that push you slightly outside of your comfort zone can help you develop problem-solving skills, too. You’ll encounter the unknown and have to think outside of the box, both of which can boost critical problem-solving-related skills.

Plus, you may gain other capabilities along the way, like experience with new technologies or tools. That makes the project an even bigger career booster, which is pretty awesome.

List of Problem-Solving Skills

Alright, we’ve taken a pretty deep dive into what problem-solving skills are. Now, it’s time for some problem-solving skills examples.

As we mentioned above, there are a ton of capabilities and traits that can support better problem-solving. By understanding what they are, you can showcase the right abilities during your job search.

So, without further ado, here is a quick list of problem-solving skill examples:

• Collaboration
• Organization
• Decision-Making
• Troubleshooting
• Self-Reliance
• Self-Motivation
• Communication
• Attention to Detail
• Brainstorming
• Forecasting
• Active Listening
• Accountability
• Open-Mindedness
• Critical Thinking
• Flexibility

Do you have to showcase all of those skills during your job search individually? No, not necessarily. Instead, you want to highlight a range of capabilities based on what the hiring manager is after. If you’re using the Tailoring Method, you’ll know which ones need to make their way into your resume, cover letter, and interview answers.

Now, are there other skills that support problem-solving? Yes, there certainly can be.

Essentially any skill that helps you go from the problem to the solution can, in its own right, be a problem-solving skill.

All of the skills above can be part of the equation. But, if you have another capability that helps you flourish when you encounter an obstacle, it can count, too.

Reflect on your past experience and consider how you’ve navigated challenges in the past. If a particular skill helped you do that, then it’s worth highlighting during a job search.

If you would like to find out more about skills to put on a resume , we’ve taken a close look at the topic before. Along with problem-solving skills, we dig into a variety of other areas, helping you choose what to highlight so that you can increase your odds of landing your perfect job.

Putting It All Together

Ultimately, problem-solving skills are essential for professionals in any kind of field. By honing your capabilities and showcasing them during your job search, you can become a stronger candidate and employee. In the end, that’s all good stuff, making it easier for you to keep your career on track today, tomorrow, and well into the future.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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• Career Advice
• What are problem solving...

What are problem solving skills and how can you improve them?

12 min read · Updated on December 09, 2022

Nail any arising problems that you face in the workplace for immediate results and accolades

Without really thinking about it, we're solving problems every day, to a greater or lesser extent. From working out how to fix the TV (turning it off and then turning it back on again usually does the trick!) to figuring out the best way to increase revenue across the company, resolving issues is an everyday part of life and work. There are lots of aspects to problem solving - making decisions, assessing the impact of something, planning ahead, diagnosing causes, analysing, thinking of alternatives, and investigation.

It's worth noting and realising that different people will have different solutions to the same problem. A simple example is this - you want to walk to the shops but it's raining. There are a few ways to approach this dilemma. Instead of walking, you could take the car or the bus, and avoid getting drenched, but that might take time, effort, and stress when it comes to parking or you'd still get wet walking from the bus stop. Or you could decide an umbrella is the best way forward to keep you partly protected. A third option is coming to the decision to walk to the shops another day, when it's dry. These are three possible solutions to a problem - you'll decide which one suits you the best at the time and three different people might each choose a different option. 

At the end of the day, if a problem is resolved, it doesn't really matter how it's done - it's just satisfying to know that it's been sorted.

What actually is a problem?

Problems are part of life, cropping up when you least expect them. That's their job. They get you thinking, get your brain working - you're alert for what's to come. Described as “anything that is difficult to deal with, solve, or overcome,” a problem in the workplace normally requires a solution and is not something that can be brushed under the carpet. If solutions aren't forthcoming, the problem can grow exponentially until it becomes too complex or overwhelming for you to tackle. Then, you've got the dilemma of escalating that problem to a higher level, your boss, say, or even to executive level. You don't want it to get this far, so it's best to confront problems as and when you come across them. 

Problem resolution, known as  one of the conceptual skills , is a highly sought-after quality that many companies and businesses look for in a potential employee. If you're planning on applying for a new job, then describing yourself as possessing problem solving skills is a must during  an interview . We'll explore ways of showing problem solving skills on your CV below. 

Different types of problems

There are various types of problems, ranging from everyday ones, that can be solved instantly, to complicated ones that require a long-term view involving in-depth, critical thinking.  The Cynefin Framework , created in 1999 by Dave Snowden, is designed to help with decision-making and is Welsh for “habitat.”

It lists four main types of problems:

As the name suggests, this is a problem that's easy to solve and has been solved time and time again already. Once you've identified that a problem is simple, you just need to delve into your experiences from before to resolve it, just like the turning off and turning on again of electrical items when they don't behave.

Complicated

This is where you have a known unknown problem - you know it's a problem but don't immediately know how to fix it. For example, your company wants to build a software product (known) but you're not sure how to go about it (unknown). Calling in the experts will help, as they'll have the knowledge and experience of where and how to start, as well as working out the cause and effect. When you realise the problem is solvable, you, or the experts, can work out potential solutions.

This is more of an unknown unknown, where you figure out afterwards how and why what actually happened, happened. Action is required even if there's no clue as to how to approach a solution. Doing something is better than nothing, because you can then see what happens. If it doesn't work, you try again with something different, until, hopefully, the solution emerges.

A scary word, eh? No one wants to see that when addressing a problem, as it's essentially a crisis point, and is a problem so major that it requires calmness, forethought, and quick action. A bit like when a tsunami hits, or a battle ensues. But less scarily, it could describe when new products are launched into the market, as nobody can truly predict how customers are going to react.

The aim is to encapsulate the problem, define its limits, and turn the chaos into a comparatively more reasonable complex problem as quickly as possible. Delaying decisions would only make the problem worse. By repeating a process of trying something, monitoring the response, then trying again, you can bring the crisis under control. This trial-and-error approach is an opportunity to find out new ways of doing things where a team is working out an issue of something that hasn't existed before. 

The stages of problem solving

Many organisations and businesses use Lean techniques and Six Sigma methods to assess problem solving. These are processes that capitalise on a team effort in order to improve performance by removing waste and reducing variation. It combines Lean manufacturing and Lean enterprise with Six Sigma, to eliminate waste within a company or process.

There are certain stages to sorting out problems that are worth spelling out. If you're adept at making things happen, you won't be particularly conscious of all the different elements - you'll just do them naturally. But if you come across an issue that is more complex than you're used to dealing with, it's worth working through these phases as there's more chance of success at the end of the process.

Defining the problem

Identifying the situation you find yourself in is key. Focus on the actual problem, not the symptoms or any distracting areas that might steer you off course. Invest in using flow charts to identify how you expect to progress throughout the process, as well as cause and effect diagrams that can help with root cause analysis.

Review and document how the current processes work, taking into account who does what, what information and tools they have, which individuals and bodies they have dealings with,  the time frame, and which format is being used. Then evaluate the impact that any changes to new tools or ways of working would have, while developing a “how it should be” model.

Coming up with alternative solutions

It's ideal, if you can, to generate various solutions to the problem, as this will give more scope and a higher probability of the problem being resolved at the end. When you've decided on the “how it should be” model, start developing a road map to investigate the alternatives. This can come about by brainstorming with your team or conducting detailed research.

Don't fall into the trap of evaluating each solution as it comes along, as it could lead to the first acceptable solution being selected when it really isn't the best fit for the problem.

Evaluating and selecting

Now is the time to drill down into the details and choose the right solution. Take time to consider various outcomes before the final selection. Will this particular process solve the issue without throwing up subsequent or unanticipated problems? Will everyone involved be willing to accept the solution? Does it fit with the ethics and vision of the organisation?

Implementing the solution with ongoing assessment

Collaborating with others during the implementation of the solution is effective, as it secures ownership for all involved and minimises the risk of further changes while also ensuring engagement with the process.

Following on from the implementation, there should be thorough assessments to find out if the solution is living up to the hype. This can be achieved through the monitoring and testing of actual events versus expectations. Remember, the most effective solutions are those which remain in place but can be tweaked over time to meet future challenges.

What are the three key attributes of a good problem solver?

It might be a bit of a cliché when written on a CV but being a  team player , with an abundance of soft skills , such as effective communication, reliability, and collaboration, is a must if you want to show strong problem resolution attributes.

Applying critical thinking to any given situation involves analysing the evidence you have, which will place you in the best possible position to make decisions while taking both short and long-term perspectives into account. For example, two members of your team have a clash of personalities and it's created an ominous atmosphere, which isn't helping with moving a project forward. You're in the position to coach them on how to strategically deal with this, but having given them the tools, you leave them to work it out between themselves. This empowers them to resolve their issues while strengthening their conflict resolution capabilities.

Remaining focused and resolute while working through a process will yield the best results. It means capturing all the relevant angles to the problem and navigating through the stages.

How to improve your problem solving skills

Improving this vital asset could land you a better position with a higher wage and continually improved job prospects, so it's worth working on your problem solving skills on a regular basis.

Analyse the problem and surrounding situation before making any moves. This delaying tactic will work in your favour because it gives you time to think, rather than rushing in, all guns blazing, and running around like a headless chicken. First off, it won't do your mindset any good, and secondly it will look like you lose control when any obstacle arises, which won't convey a good impression to colleagues or the team you lead or work with.

Discussing the problem and possible solutions with workmates shows a collaborative approach; after all, two (or more) heads are better than one. You can offer fact-based decisions that back up your ideas.

Look back at, and analyse, past solutions that either you came up with or were from another source. These will form the backdrop for how you can move forward. By identifying why and how previous solutions worked, you'll be able to recognise what will work and what won't in future.

Deciding who are the best people to engage with is paramount to the success of the solution. Getting the right colleagues to impart their expertise, past experience, or fuller understanding of a certain situation should speed up the process.

Last, but by no means least, stay calm, especially in pressurised circumstances. When a problem rears its head, take a breather - go for a walk around the block to clear your head, or at the very least, step away from your desk. Apart from potential safety issues, there's hardly ever going to be a time when you can't take a few minutes to think about a problem. You'll certainly achieve better outcomes when you apply your problem solving skills logically instead of panicking.

How to demonstrate problem solving skills in your CV

Like all  transferable skills , you want to incorporate your problem solving skills into your CV as this shows an aptitude for getting things done, overcoming obstacles, and facing up to, and resolving, challenges. Even if you're  not actively looking for a new role at the moment, it's worth noting down when you've identified and resolved obstacles that come your way by applying your problem solving skills expertly.

But instead of just writing, “Excellent at problem resolution,” or “Skilled when it comes to solving problems,” you want to quantify your assets to show results.

Options open to you, that can be customised to suit your own achievements, include:

“Often sought after to turn around failing brands and businesses, transforming them into cohesive and smoothly run operations.”

“Adept at completing tasks to their logical conclusion and identifying the optimum way to solve complex problems.”

“Played an integral role in resolving a problem by successfully delivering a new mapping system which brought together all map data about the company's sites, network, and land.”

“Reviewing and improving on a process by listening to customer requirements and ironing out past discrepancies and problems.”

“Identified a £20 million revenue threat from customer DIY electronics in data centres with Ethernet access and generated techno-economic data analysis to recommend a solution.”

“Created demand for company products by understanding the need to adapt to changing circumstances and market dynamics in order to develop and apply flexible solutions.”

“An innovative Programme Manager experienced in pre-empting complex problems and seeking out definitive and innovative solutions.”

“Applied robust problem solving and troubleshooting skills when carrying out aircraft checks, including refurbishment of cabin interiors and seats, mechanical work, removal and installation of aircraft components, and structural repairs.”

“Solved a recruitment shortfall by designing a rigorous selection process that secured high calibre staff with the right balance of skills to guarantee project success.”

“Combatted problematic resistance from staff by cultivating productive working relationships and creating a programme that was clear, well communicated, easy to access, and scalable within a short period of time.”

The takeaway

To ensure your  CV passes the seven-second test , which is how long, on average, a recruiter or prospective employer initially glances at your CV, you need certain qualities to pop off the page. Citing problem solving skills, with tangible examples that demonstrate when and how you resolved problems, is really important as it highlights that you're a force to be reckoned with and the type of employee who gets things done.

Are you demonstrating your excellent problem solving skills within your CV so that they stand out and get you noticed by a potential employer? Here's the right solution - indulge yourself with a free CV review to set you up and start you on the road to job success.

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• Skills Development

What Are Problem-Solving Skills?

Definition & Examples of Problem-Solving Skills

• Problem-solving skills help you determine why an issue is happening and how to resolve that issue.

Learn more about problem-solving skills and how they work.

Problem-solving skills help you solve issues quickly and effectively. It's one of the  key skills that employers  seek in job applicants, as employees with these skills tend to be self-reliant. Problem-solving skills require quickly identifying the underlying issue and implementing a solution.

Problem-solving is considered a  soft skill  (a personal strength) rather than a hard skill that's learned through education or training. You can improve your problem-solving skills by familiarizing yourself with common issues in your industry and learning from more experienced employees.

How Problem-Solving Skills Work

Problem-solving starts with identifying the issue. For example, a teacher might need to figure out how to improve student performance on a writing proficiency test. To do that, the teacher will review the writing tests looking for areas of improvement. They might see that students can construct simple sentences, but they're struggling with writing paragraphs and organizing those paragraphs into an essay.

To solve the problem, the teacher would work with students on how and when to write compound sentences, how to write paragraphs, and ways to organize an essay.

Theresa Chiechi / The Balance

There are five steps typically used in problem-solving.

1. Analyze Contributing Factors

To solve a problem, you must find out what caused it. This requires you to gather and evaluate data, isolate possible contributing circumstances, and pinpoint what needs to be addressed for a resolution.

To do this, you'll use skills like :

• Data gathering
• Data analysis
• Fact-finding
• Historical analysis

2. Generate Interventions

Once you’ve determined the cause, brainstorm possible solutions. Sometimes this involves teamwork since two (or more) minds are often better than one. A single strategy is rarely the obvious route to solving a complex problem; devising a set of alternatives helps you cover your bases and reduces your risk of exposure should the first strategy you implement fail.

This involves skills like :

• Brainstorming
• Creative thinking
• Forecasting
• Project design
• Project planning

3. Evaluate Solutions

Depending on the nature of the problem and your chain of command, evaluating best solutions may be performed by assigned teams, team leads, or forwarded to corporate decision-makers. Whoever makes the decision must evaluate potential costs, required resources, and possible barriers to successful solution implementation.

This requires several skills, including:

• Corroboration
• Test development
• Prioritizing

4. Implement a Plan

Once a course of action has been decided, it must be implemented along with benchmarks that can quickly and accurately determine whether it’s working. Plan implementation also involves letting personnel know about changes in standard operating procedures.

This requires skills like:

• Project management
• Project implementation
• Collaboration
• Time management
• Benchmark development

5. Assess the Solution's Effectiveness

Once a solution is implemented, the best problem-solvers have systems in place to evaluate if and how quickly it's working. This way, they know as soon as possible whether the issue has been resolved or whether they’ll have to change their response to the problem mid-stream.

This requires:

• Communication
• Customer feedback
• Follow-through
• Troubleshooting

Here's an example of showing your problem-solving skills in a cover letter.

When I was first hired as a paralegal, I inherited a backlog of 25 sets of medical records that needed to be summarized, each of which was hundreds of pages long. At the same time, I had to help prepare for three major cases, and there weren’t enough hours in the day. After I explained the problem to my supervisor, she agreed to pay me to come in on Saturday mornings to focus on the backlog. I was able to eliminate the backlog in a month.

Here's another example of how to show your problem-solving skills in a cover letter:

When I joined the team at Great Graphics as Artistic Director, the designers had become uninspired because of a former director who attempted to micro-manage every step in the design process. I used weekly round-table discussions to solicit creative input and ensured that each designer was given full autonomy to do their best work. I also introduced monthly team-based competitions that helped build morale, spark new ideas, and improve collaboration.

Highlighting Problem-Solving Skills

• Since this is a skill that's important to most employers, put them front and center on your resume, cover letter, and in interviews.

If you're not sure what to include, look to previous roles—whether in academic, work, or volunteer settings—for examples of challenges you met and problems you solved. Highlight relevant examples in your  cover letter and use bullet points in your resume to show how you solved a problem.

During interviews, be ready to describe situations you've encountered in previous roles, the processes you followed to address problems, the skills you applied, and the results of your actions. Potential employers are eager to hear a  coherent narrative of the ways you've used problem-solving skills .

Interviewers may pose hypothetical problems for you to solve. Base your answers on the five steps and refer to similar problems you've resolved, if possible. Here are tips for answering problem-solving interview questions , with examples of the best answers.

Key Takeaways

• It's one of the key skills that employers seek in job applicants.
• Problem-solving starts with identifying the issue, coming up with solutions, implementing those solutions, and evaluating their effectiveness. 

How to Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills (and Show Them Off in Your Job Hunt)

Problem-solving skills are critical for any career path—no matter where you work or what job you have, you’ll face problems big and small all the time. If you want to succeed in your career, being able to effectively navigate (and solve!) those problems is a must. And if you’re on the job hunt, showcasing your problem-solving skills can help you land your dream gig.

But what, exactly, are problem-solving skills? What can you do to improve them? And if you’re looking for a new position, how can you show off your problem-solving skills during your job search to help you land an awesome job?

Consider this your guide to all things problem-solving. Let’s get started.

What Are Problem-Solving Skills and Why Are They Important?

“Problem-solving skills are skills that allow you to identify and define a situation that needs changing,” says Doug Noll , an attorney and adjunct faculty member at the Straus Institute of Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine University’s Caruso School of Law, where he teaches graduate-level classes in decision-making and problem-solving. Once you identify what needs changing, problem-solving skills also enable you to “identify the best outcomes, define potential processes for achieving the best outcomes, and evaluate how the process achieved (or failed to achieve) the desired outcome,” he says. “Every job imaginable involves problem-solving.”

Being able to effectively solve problems can help you succeed and impress, regardless of what kind of job you have or career you plan to pursue. “A person who sorts out problems and makes decisions—or at least brings potential solutions to the table—is seen as someone who can get things done,” says organizational consultant Irial O’Farrell , author of the upcoming book The Manager’s Dilemma: How to Empower Your Team’s Problem Solving . “This makes managers’ lives easier—and managers notice people who make their lives easier, who get things done, and who don’t have to be told [what to do] the whole time. In turn, opportunities are put their way, enhancing their career.”

And the further you progress in your career, the more important those skills become, Noll says. “As you rise in an organization, the problems become more complex, ambiguous, uncertain, and risky. Only people able to solve these types of problems are promoted.” So as you hone your problem-solving skills, you become more valuable to any organization—and will be able to climb the ladder more easily as a result.

The 6 Steps of Problem-Solving—and the Skills You Need for Each One

Problem-solving is a process. And, like any process, there are certain steps you need to take in order to get to the finish line:

Step #1: Identify and Assess the Problem

You can’t solve a problem if you don’t know what the problem is. So “the first step is to recognize that an issue—or potential issue—exists,” O’Farrell says. In order to do that, you’ll need “a certain amount of knowledge or awareness of what should be happening as compared to what is actually happening.”

Once you recognize there’s a problem, you’ll need to evaluate its potential impact. “Is this going to affect three people or 203 people? Is this going to cost us $10 or $100,000? How material is this issue?” O’Farrell says. “Being able to evaluate the size, impact, and costs [of a problem] is a key skill here.”

When you understand the scope of the problem, you’ll have a better idea of what you’re dealing with—and will be able to come up with appropriate, relevant solutions as a result.

Skills needed during this step of the problem-solving process include:

• Attention to detail
• Data collection
• Forecasting

Step #2: Get to the Source of the Problem

Once you know what the problem is (and what its potential impact might be), it’s time to figure out where the problem is coming from or why it’s happening—as identifying the source of the problem will give you key insights into how to fix it.

“Often we notice a problem because of its symptoms, rather than its root cause. As a result, it is common to focus on resolving the symptoms, rather than what is causing the symptoms,” O’Farrell says. But “by understanding the root causes, a better, longer-term solution can be identified.”

There are a variety of techniques to help you dig deeper and understand what’s causing the problem at hand. For example, a 5 Whys analysis could help you uncover the root cause of a problem by having you ask “Why?” five times in a row, with each “Why?” building off the previous answer. Or you might try the fishbone diagram —also known as a cause-and-effect analysis—which encourages looking at the different categories that could be causing a problem and brainstorming potential root causes within each of those categories.

During this stage of the problem-solving process, curiosity is key; you’ll need it to explore all the different factors that could be contributing to the problem.

• Analysis (including root-cause analysis)
• Brainstorming
• Critical thinking

Step #3: Brainstorm Potential Solutions

Once you’ve identified the problem (and the root of the problem), “the next step is to brainstorm potential options that will resolve it,” O’Farrell says.

How much brainstorming you’ll need to do will depend on the problem you’re dealing with. “If it’s a fairly small, straightforward issue, then identifying a few options might be sufficient,” O’Farrell says. Especially for a bigger issue, “Taking some time to think beyond the obvious might lead to a better and longer-term solution.”

The size and scope of the problem will also determine who needs to be involved in this step. In some cases, you may be able to brainstorm solutions yourself. But if you’re dealing with a larger, more complex issue, getting more people involved (and choosing the right people, i.e. those best equipped to handle the problem) is important. You’ll need to be able to judge what kind of problem it is and who to bring in to help and lead a productive brainstorming session.

One of the most important skills you’ll draw on at this stage is creativity. The more creative you are during your brainstorm, the more (and better) potential solutions you’ll be able to come up with—and the more likely one of those solutions will be the solution you’re looking for.

Skills you might need during this step of the problem-solving process include:

• Communication
• Meeting facilitation

Step #4: Evaluate Solutions

Once you have a list of potential solutions from your brainstorming session, the next step is to examine each one carefully and narrow down your list so only the best solutions remain.

In order to succeed during this stage of the problem-solving process, you’ll need to be able to dig into each potential solution and evaluate how viable it is. You may make a pros and cons list for each potential solution, talk through the benefits and drawbacks with your team, and then narrow down your options to the solutions that have the most potential upsides.

All the work you put into the problem-solving process up to this point will also come in handy as you’re evaluating which of your potential solutions might ultimately be the most effective. “Having a strong understanding of what the issue is, why it’s an issue, and what is causing it helps in being able to determine if each of the solutions will sort the issue out,” O’Farrell says.

• Fact-checking
• Prioritization

Step #5: Choose the Best Solution

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential solutions—and weighed the pros and cons of each—it’s time for you (or your supervisor or another decision-maker) to choose one.

“Depending on the type and impact of the issue and your role and authority, you may be the one making the decision or you may be presenting the issue and potential solutions to your boss,” O’Farrell says.

Knowing who should make the call is a key part of this step; if the problem is complex or will have a major impact on your organization that goes beyond your level of responsibility, it’s probably best to bring potential solutions to your boss and/or other stakeholders—and give them the final say.

• Decision-making
• Public speaking

Step #6: Implement the Decision and Reflect on the Outcome

Choosing a solution in and of itself doesn’t fix anything. You need to actually implement that solution—and do it well. That means developing a plan and coordinating with other key players in your organization to put that plan into action—which requires a host of skills (such as communication, collaboration, and project management).

Before you can hang up your problem-solving hat, you’ll also need to “go back and evaluate if the solution sorted out the issue” or if it caused any unintended consequences, O’Farrell says.

For example, let’s say your organization has a problem with taking too long to address customer service requests—and you rolled out a new ticket management system in order to deal with the issue. Once you implement that new system, you’ll want to follow up to make sure it’s allowing your customer service reps to deal with requests faster and hasn’t caused any new, different, or unexpected issues (for example, tickets getting lost in the queue or customers being less satisfied with the quality of support they received).

• Adaptability
• Collaboration
• Data analysis
• Goal setting
• Organization
• Project management
• Project planning
• Time management

How to Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills

Clearly, solving problems is a complex process—and it’s a process you need to nail if you want to grow in your career. But how can you improve your problem-solving skills so they can help you thrive in your career?

• Put on your student hat. One of the best ways to improve here is to study how to effectively solve problems. “Read case studies of complex problems,” Noll says. (For example, if you want to land a marketing job, you might search for case studies on how other companies were able to increase their qualified leads or drive more traffic to their website.) Noll also suggests reading books about different problem-solving techniques—or, if you really want to level up your skills, investing in a general course in critical thinking and problem-solving. “A good course should teach you how to think,” he says—and critical thinking plays a huge role in problem-solving.
• Try different brainstorming techniques. If you want to be a better problem solver, try pushing yourself to think outside of the box. “Learning some brainstorming techniques and expanding your thinking beyond the obvious solutions is also a way to make your problem-solving skills stand out,” O’Farrell says. Brainstorming techniques like brainwriting (a nonverbal brainstorming technique for teams) or rapid ideation (which pushes you to come up with as many ideas as possible in a short time frame) can help spark creative thinking—and help you become a more creative problem solver in the process.
• Ask expert problem-solvers how they solve problems. People in your professional (or personal!) life who excel at solving problems can be a great resource for leveling up your own problem-solving skills. “Talk to senior mentors about how they approached complex problems,” Noll says. “Get them to talk about their failures and mistakes,” he says, not just their successes. Seeing how other people solve problems and what they’ve learned from their experiences can help you approach problems in a different way and can make you a more versatile problem solver.
• Practice, practice, practice. Like with anything else, if you want to improve your problem-solving skills, you need to practice solving problems. “Most people jump to the easy, intuitive answer rather than [carefully thinking] through the problem,” O’Farrell says. So next time you’re confronted with a problem, rather than jump to a hasty solution, take your time to go through the entire problem-solving process. And if you don’t have any real problems to deal with? Attempting to solve hypothetical problems can be just as helpful.

How to Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills During the Job Search

Recruiters and hiring managers are looking for people with problem-solving skills who can help them, their team, and their company achieve their goals even in the face of obstacles and setbacks. So if you want to stand out, nail the interview, and score the job, you’ll need to showcase your problem-solving skills throughout your job search.

Here are a few ways to show off your problem-solving skills:

On a Resume

You can show potential employers that you’re a problem solver right on your resume. As you write your bullets for each past job and other experiences, “Incorporate one main challenge that you had to overcome, and give a brief synopsis of how you approached it, what the solution was and, most importantly, what the positive outcome was,” O’Farrell says.

For example, let’s say you’re a marketing manager and you had to figure out a way to launch a new product with a minimal budget. Under your current role, you might include a bullet point that says:

• Launched new sunscreen line across digital and traditional channels with <$10,000 budget by exploring up-and-coming distribution channels and negotiating wide-scale distribution agreements, bringing in $60,000 in new product sales within 90 days of launch

O’Farrell also recommends using action verbs (like “ analyze,” “evaluate,” or “identify”) to call out your problem-solving skills on a resume.

In a Cover Letter

In your cover letter, you’ll have more room and flexibility to showcase your problem-solving skills—and you should definitely take advantage of the opportunity.

Noll suggests using your cover letter to tell a quick story (think two to three sentences) about when and how you’ve solved a relevant problem. In your story, you want to include:

• What the problem was
• How you approached it/came to a solution
• What the outcomes of your problem-solving were
• What lessons you learned

Another strategy is to highlight how you would use your problem-solving skills within the context of the role you’re applying for. “I’d recommend reviewing the job description and identifying what types of problems you might have to deal with in the role,” O’Farrell says. Then you can speak directly to how you might approach them.

For example, let’s say you’re applying for an executive assistant position that requires extensive scheduling and calendar management for an exec who is often traveling for business. In that situation, you might explain how you’d solve the problem of scheduling while the exec is out of office (for example, by developing an appointment approval system that allows the exec to approve all appointment requests remotely, with a plan for how to notify the exec of appointment requests that need immediate attention).

During Interviews

The interview process offers the best opportunity for your problem-solving skills to shine, so you’ll want to come prepared.

“In preparation for the interview, select two to three situations where you used your problem-solving skills,” O’Farrell says. That way, when the interviewer asks you for examples of problems you’ve faced in your career—and how you solved them—you’ll have relevant stories ready. If you’re not sure how to tell your story effectively, the STAR method (which breaks down your story into four parts: S ituation, T ask, A ction, and R esult) can be helpful.

As a potential candidate, it’s also important to ask how you’ll need to use your skills on the job, Noll says. So you might ask the interviewers to share some of the issues or problems they’re hoping to solve by filling this position.

And if they turn around and ask you how you’d solve those problems? Don’t panic! If you have a story of a similar problem you’ve solved in the past, this is a great opportunity to share it. Otherwise, just talk through how you would approach it. Remember, the interviewers don’t expect you to come up with detailed solutions for problems their company is facing on the spot; they just want to get a sense of how you would begin to think about those problems if you were hired.

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What are analytical skills? Examples and how to level up

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What are analytical skills?

Why are analytical skills important, 9 analytical skills examples, how to improve analytical skills, how to show analytical skills in a job application, the benefits of an analytical mind.

With market forecasts, performance metrics, and KPIs, work throws a lot of information at you. 

If you want to stay ahead of the curve, not only do you have to make sense of the data that comes your way — you need to put it to good use. And that requires analytical skills.

You likely use analytical thinking skills every day without realizing it, like when you solve complex problems or prioritize tasks . But understanding the meaning of analysis skills in a job description, why you should include them in your professional development plan, and what makes them vital to every position can help advance your career.

Analytical skills, or analysis skills, are the ones you use to research and interpret information. Although you might associate them with data analysis, they help you think critically about an issue, make decisions , and solve problems in any context. That means anytime you’re brainstorming for a solution or reviewing a project that didn’t go smoothly, you’re analyzing information to find a conclusion. With so many applications, they’re relevant for nearly every job, making them a must-have on your resume.

Analytical skills help you think objectively about information and come to informed conclusions. Positions that consider these skills the most essential qualification grew by 92% between 1980 and 2018 , which shows just how in-demand they are. And according to Statista, global data creation will grow to more than 180 zettabytes by 2025 — a number with 21 zeros. That data informs every industry, from tech to marketing.

Even if you don’t interact with statistics and data on the job, you still need analytical skills to be successful. They’re incredibly valuable because:

• They’re transferable: You can use analysis skills in a variety of professional contexts and in different areas of your life, like making major decisions as a family or setting better long-term personal goals.
• They build agility: Whether you’re starting a new position or experiencing a workplace shift, analysis helps you understand and adapt quickly to changing conditions. 
• They foster innovation: Analytical skills can help you troubleshoot processes or operational improvements that increase productivity and profitability.
• They make you an attractive candidate: Companies are always looking for future leaders who can build company value. Developing a strong analytical skill set shows potential employers that you’re an intelligent, growth-oriented candidate.

If the thought of evaluating data feels unintuitive, or if math and statistics aren’t your strong suits, don’t stress. Many examples of analytical thinking skills don’t involve numbers. You can build your logic and analysis abilities through a variety of capacities, such as:

1. Brainstorming

Using the information in front of you to generate new ideas is a valuable transferable skill that helps you innovate at work . Developing your brainstorming techniques leads to better collaboration and organizational growth, whether you’re thinking of team bonding activities or troubleshooting a project roadblock. Related skills include benchmarking, diagnosis, and judgment to adequately assess situations and find solutions.

2. Communication

Becoming proficient at analysis is one thing, but you should also know how to communicate your findings to your audience — especially if they don’t have the same context or experience as you. Strong communication skills like public speaking , active listening , and storytelling can help you strategize the best ways to get the message out and collaborate with your team . And thinking critically about how to approach difficult conversations or persuade someone to see your point relies on these skills. 

3. Creativity

You might not associate analysis with your creativity skills, but if you want to find an innovative approach to an age-old problem, you’ll need to combine data with creative thinking . This can help you establish effective metrics, spot trends others miss, and see why the most obvious answer to a problem isn’t always the best. Skills that can help you to think outside the box include strategic planning, collaboration, and integration.

4. Critical thinking

Processing information and determining what’s valuable requires critical thinking skills . They help you avoid the cognitive biases that prevent innovation and growth, allowing you to see things as they really are and understand their relevance. Essential skills to turn yourself into a critical thinker are comparative analysis, business intelligence, and inference.

5. Data analytics

When it comes to large volumes of information, a skilled analytical thinker can sort the beneficial from the irrelevant. Data skills give you the tools to identify trends and patterns and visualize outcomes before they impact an organization or project’s performance. Some of the most common skills you can develop are prescriptive analysis and return on investment (ROI) analysis.

6. Forecasting

Predicting future business, market, and cultural trends better positions your organization to take advantage of new opportunities or prepare for downturns. Business forecasting requires a mix of research skills and predictive abilities, like statistical analysis and data visualization, and the ability to present your findings clearly.

7. Logical reasoning

Becoming a logical thinker means learning to observe and analyze situations to draw rational and objective conclusions. With logic, you can evaluate available facts, identify patterns or correlations, and use them to improve decision-making outcomes. If you’re looking to improve in this area, consider developing inductive and deductive reasoning skills.

8. Problem-solving

Problem-solving appears in all facets of your life — not just work. Effectively finding solutions to any issue takes analysis and logic, and you also need to take initiative with clear action plans . To improve your problem-solving skills , invest in developing visualization , collaboration, and goal-setting skills.

9. Research

Knowing how to locate information is just as valuable as understanding what to do with it. With research skills, you’ll recognize and collect data relevant to the problem you’re trying to solve or the initiative you’re trying to start. You can improve these skills by learning about data collection techniques, accuracy evaluation, and metrics.

You don’t need to earn a degree in data science to develop these skills. All it takes is time, practice, and commitment. Everything from work experience to hobbies can help you learn new things and make progress. Try a few of these ideas and stick with the ones you enjoy:

1. Document your skill set

The next time you encounter a problem and need to find solutions, take time to assess your process. Ask yourself:

• What facts are you considering?
• Do you ask for help or research on your own? What are your sources of advice?
• What does your brainstorming process look like?
• How do you make and execute a final decision?
• Do you reflect on the outcomes of your choices to identify lessons and opportunities for improvement?
• Are there any mistakes you find yourself making repeatedly?
• What problems do you constantly solve easily? 

These questions can give insight into your analytical strengths and weaknesses and point you toward opportunities for growth.

2. Take courses

Many online and in-person courses can expand your logical thinking and analysis skills. They don’t necessarily have to involve information sciences. Just choose something that trains your brain and fills in your skills gaps . 

Consider studying philosophy to learn how to develop your arguments or public speaking to better communicate the results of your research. You could also work on your hard skills with tools like Microsoft Excel and learn how to crunch numbers effectively. Whatever you choose, you can explore different online courses or certification programs to upskill. 

3. Analyze everything

Spend time consciously and critically evaluating everything — your surroundings, work processes, and even the way you interact with others. Integrating analysis into your day-to-day helps you practice. The analytical part of your brain is like a muscle, and the more you use it, the stronger it’ll become. 

After reading a book, listening to a podcast, or watching a movie, take some time to analyze what you watched. What were the messages? What did you learn? How was it delivered? Taking this approach to media will help you apply it to other scenarios in your life. 

If you’re giving a presentation at work or helping your team upskill , use the opportunity to flex the analytical side of your brain. For effective teaching, you’ll need to process and analyze the topic thoroughly, which requires skills like logic and communication. You also have to analyze others’ learning styles and adjust your teachings to match them. 

5. Play games

Spend your commute or weekends working on your skills in a way you enjoy. Try doing logic games like Sudoku and crossword puzzles during work breaks to foster critical thinking. And you can also integrate analytical skills into your existing hobbies. According to researcher Rakesh Ghildiyal, even team sports like soccer or hockey will stretch your capacity for analysis and strategic thinking . 

6. Ask questions

According to a study in Tr ends in Cognitive Sciences, being curious improves cognitive function , helping you develop problem-solving skills, retention, and memory. Start speaking up in meetings and questioning the why and how of different decisions around you. You’ll think more critically and even help your team find breakthrough solutions they otherwise wouldn’t.

7.Seek advice

If you’re unsure what analytical skills you need to develop, try asking your manager or colleagues for feedback . Their outside perspective offers insight you might not find within, like patterns in. And if you’re looking for more consistent guidance, talking to a coach can help you spot weaknesses and set goals for the long term.

8. Pursue opportunities

Speak to your manager about participating in special projects that could help you develop and flex your skills. If you’d like to learn about SEO or market research, ask to shadow someone in the ecommerce or marketing departments. If you’re interested in business forecasting, talk to the data analysis team. Taking initiative demonstrates a desire to learn and shows leadership that you’re eager to grow. 

Shining a spotlight on your analytical skills can help you at any stage of your job search. But since they take many forms, it’s best to be specific and show potential employers exactly why and how they make you a better candidate. Here are a few ways you can showcase them to the fullest:

1. In your cover letter

Your cover letter crafts a narrative around your skills and work experience. Use it to tell a story about how you put your analytical skills to use to solve a problem or improve workflow. Make sure to include concrete details to explain your thought process and solution — just keep it concise. Relate it back to the job description to show the hiring manager or recruiter you have the qualifications necessary to succeed.

2. On your resume

Depending on the type of resume you’re writing, there are many opportunities to convey your analytical skills to a potential employer. You could include them in sections like: 

• Professional summary: If you decide to include a summary, describe yourself as an analytical person or a problem-solver, whichever relates best to the job posting. 
• Work experience: Describe all the ways your skill for analysis has helped you perform or go above and beyond your responsibilities. Be sure to include specific details about challenges and outcomes related to the role you’re applying for to show how you use those skills. 
• Skills section: If your resume has a skill-specific section, itemize the analytical abilities you’ve developed over your career. These can include hard analytical skills like predictive modeling as well as interpersonal skills like communication.

3. During a job interview

As part of your interview preparation , list your professional accomplishments and the skills that helped along the way, such as problem-solving, data literacy, or strategic thinking. Then, pull them together into confident answers to common interview questions using the STAR method to give the interviewer a holistic picture of your skill set.

Developing analytical skills isn’t only helpful in the workplace. It’s essential to life. You’ll use them daily whenever you read the news, make a major purchase, or interact with others. Learning to critically evaluate information can benefit your relationships and help you feel more confident in your decisions, whether you’re weighing your personal budget or making a big career change .

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Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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How to assess problem-solving skills for project managers

Being able to accurately assess a team member’s mastery of problem solving when managing a project is something of a hot topic. Every organization wants to future proof its activities, and problem-solving is typically seen as a magic bullet in this regard.

But what do we actually mean by problem solving skills, and how can these skills be accurately assessed?

There’s been a lot of chatter about whether or not problem solving is a soft skill , and this is at the heart of where the difficulty in assessing them often lies. Usually, problem solving involves a variety of other soft skill sets, such as decision-making, analysis, leadership skills, communication and creativity . So, yes, alongside being a great personal strength, for the most part it is considered to be a soft skill rather than something that’s learned through education or training . That said, the particular methods and processes that project managers in particular use to problem solve – those would be considered a hard skill.

For project managers and project teams , problem solving is their bread and butter and it relies on a huge variety of different techniques and skills that successful problem solvers will all be proficient in, so it’s no wonder that organizations are keen to accurately assess these skills so they can work together even more efficiently .

Why is problem-solving an essential skill?

These skills are a must-have for managers and pretty much all senior roles. In fact, they could be seen as an asset in any team. It wouldn’t be entirely unrealistic to say that good problem solvers are also often the people who most frequently come up with better ways to do things, fresh ideas and their communication skills are often top notch. And as far as employability skills are concerned , problem solvers are right there at the top.

Solving the proficiency question

Picture the scene: you’ve got a great team, but you want to be even better and you may even bring someone new onboard. On paper, everyone has great problem-solving skills, but you want to deep dive a little more and identify ways to work even more efficiently as a team.

This is an important thing to know (especially if you want to bring new people onboard), because according to recent research , up to 85% of resumes contain misleading statements and interviews alone are not always great predictors of role suitability and performance . In an ideal world, you’d start assessing these skills at the point of the recruitment process. Can they be measured by figures, or is it more complex than that?

The traditional approach would be to assess for problem solving skills in one of two ways.  Firstly, you could ask for examples of when the candidate previously solved a problem successfully. There’s quite a lot of merit in this approach: you’d get a feel for how comfortable the candidate is with talking about problem solving , whether something immediately came to mind, and whether or not they had the knowledge to back up what they’d written on their resume.

Another way to test their problem-solving mettle would be to provide a hypothetical scenario and ask for their take on it . Much like the previous approach, this would allow you to assess their response and get a feel for their way of working.

Depending on the organization you work for and the role you undertake, you could be looking for very different things than say, your friend who works in a different industry. But overall, checking out someone’s problem solving skills can be a great way to find out how a person uses creativity, logic, and analytical skills to get to the bottom of really complex issues and situations.

In the case of teams already in situ, you could use these same techniques in a cross-functional workshop environment .

Why do we care so much about problem solving?

Because quite simply, it’s about overcoming obstacles . In fact, this is often what is described as the ‘ultimate goal’ of problem solving from a project management approach.  And while what’s best for one situation may not be for another, it's hard to refute the fact that finding the best solution to resolve an issue is an alluring, if not downright attractive proposition. Problem solving involves a complex way of thinking, that covers discovery, analysis and resolution .

Of course, not everybody is good at problem solving. It’s not an innate skill and not everybody has the skillset required to carve a career out of finding solutions to other people’s problems, which is why it’s so important to use an objective way of gathering information about your workforce and their skill sets. The data you gather can and should be used to help you make informed decisions about who does what within your team and any continuous improvement measures that may be necessary.

Is there a winning strategy for assessing problem solving skills?

The answer is yes and no! It’s often possible to quantify things such as a person’s success ratio when it comes to reaching solutions, or to create a numerical value-based approach to the skills required for effective problem solving. There are also a number of frameworks and methods that can help a team assess and improve their problem solving skills.

Personality tests are often used in this scenario. These kinds of tests can help you spot patterns and characteristics that will likely be relevant to your role as well as putting the spotlight on how candidates will react in certain situations. 

Other employers prefer to use cognitive ability tests . These are all about aptitude and can be used to assess skills in the areas of verbal reasoning, critical thinking and other abilities which all feed into problem solving. These kinds of tests will provide a score which you can use for comparison and rating purposes.

When using these tests and assessing problem solving skills, it’s helpful to keep how you work front of mind as well. Afterall, if you have a hybrid or even a remote working model in place, this may be a better fit for some personality types or those with a more specific skill set. 

A focus on figures

Data analytics and problem-solving often go hand in hand. According to the abovementioned HRForecast* article, there are three key reasons why data analytics is important when it comes to problem solving, and how it can be used to measure improvements across your organization.

• Firstly, because it can help uncover hidden details , including trends. 
• Secondly, you’re more likely to be able to create automated models if you have a wealth of data, and this data can be used to help predict relevant solutions. 
• Thirdly, with relevant data analysis, you can efficiently store it and use later for solving other problems in more or less similar contexts. 

A complex framework

By and large though, a high performing team member who has strong patience, communication and cognitive skills is more likely to approach problem solving in a way that will lead to a successful outcome than not. However, there are a great many factors that can affect a person’s proficiency in problem solving, which makes it a complex beast to analyse. To be truly proficient in problem solving you need to really understand the problem that you’re dealing with . Without this, you’re extremely unlikely to be able to find a solution to your problem – no matter how good your skills are!

To understand the problem you’re facing, it’s important to see the bigger picture that surrounds it , the problems that might hold things up, as well as any key stakeholders, and whatever you identify as the root causes of the problem.

As a manager, you’ll want to look for team members who exhibit skills which more readily lend themselves to problem solving. While personality will play a part in this, communication, group working skills and cognitive skills should all be on your radar as the attributes that can lead to good problem solving.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that resources are an often-forgotten dependency when it comes to problem solving. Afterall, you can have the capabilities to solve problems, but if you don’t have the right resources to hand, you could find the process of solving your problem is seriously slowed down.

Think outside your organization

Another key piece of the problem-solving puzzle relates to external factors . What do we mean by external factors ? Well, things like competitors, economic circumstances and wider geo-political or environmental concerns. These things may not directly impact the problem you’re trying to solve, but they will have a knock-on effect to the overarching process, which means they shouldn’t be discounted.

What can we be sure about when it comes to assessing problem solving skills?

Effective problem-solving really does require a skill set that is both broad and allows teams and organizations to move forward to achieve their strategic and operational aims. 

It may not be black and white but experienced problem solvers understand the need to drill down into a problem so that they can then approach it in ‘chunks’ and increase the likelihood of coming up with a workable solution .

We’ve long been fascinated with the idea of problem solving, and in particular, solving the question of how to assess problem solving skills. We could be forgiven for thinking that it should be straightforward, but the reality is that problem solving is a much more complex process.

But in what is perhaps one of the most startling examples of why problem-solving skills are so important, the recent pandemic has made organizations of all shapes and sizes problem-solve on an almost unprecedented scale . Being able to quickly change ways of working , learn to use new pieces of tech and generally find work arounds for systems and processes that had been unchanged for years has been a critical element in the success or failure of organizations around the world.  

Now that a hybrid approach is an accepted part of the ‘new normal’, we’ve watched with interest the emerging design thinking methods and problem-solving strategies in companies. Over the last few years, they have become well and truly embedded in the everyday routines of many organizations, who once swore that traditional meetings and in-person discussions were the only way to solve a problem.

We like to think of problem-solving skills as a kind of superpower . Not dissimilar to thinking skills, they allow people to develop strategies that will inform their questions and ultimately lead to answers.

Your next steps

If you’re thinking about assessing problem solving skills within your team, or are looking for ways to assess those skills in a recruitment setting , it’s important to have a plan. Think about the end of goal of your assessment and then choose an approach that will support that.

Make sure you have the tools in place to allow your teams to problem solve to the absolute best of their ability. This may mean using new ways of holding workshops or switching to a design thinking approach and collaborating across a wider remote team.  Or it could be as simple as finding a way for every contributor to feel involved from wherever they are in the world.

Whatever you do, remember that in an age where the workplace is constantly evolving and economic turbulence looks set for some time, having a workforce that is both able and armed with the tools and culture to let them problem solve to a high level can truly be the difference between sinking or swimming.

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