Have you ever heard the following statement, “Leaders are problem solvers!” Of course, you’ve heard that expression. Well, I first heard it when I was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Army.
As a young leader, the connection between leadership and problem solving was drilled into my head. I remember our instructors in my Officer Basic Course, presenting multiple case studies to develop our problem-solving skills.
In every course, we would spend at least half of our time working on different scenarios and case studies. As young leaders, with minimal life experience, we would debate and argue our solutions for hours. Sometimes our conversations would spill over to dinner and into breakfast the next morning.
When we returned to class, we were so excited to dazzle our instructors with our brilliant solutions. However, when we presented our solutions, our instructors would take pleasure in dissecting them. At first, we would leave class deflated, but as our skills improved, our instructors’ critique became more positive.
So why did we spend so much time on problem-solving? All organizations have problems. As leaders, our goal is to curtail problems as much as possible. Consequently, problem-solving is a crucial leadership skill.
To be a great leader, you must be a problem solver!
“Problem-solving is the essence of what leaders exist to do.”
Glenn Llopis
How do you become a problem solver? First, you must understand the term “problem-solving.” Problem-solving is a way of thinking. It is a higher-order cognitive skill, which can be learned.
So how can you enhance your problem-solving skills? Here are six steps I learned as a young officer to solve problems.
- Identify and define the problem – spend time investigating, understanding and interpreting the problem
- Analyze the problem – collect data from multiple sources to identify the root cause of the problem
- Communicate – be open-minded when sharing your findings and soliciting input on potential solutions
- Develop solutions – keep your focus on the big picture and validate your potential solution with knowledgeable people
- Monitor results – track the results of your solution
- Learn from mistakes – view mistakes as an opportunity to grow and develop as a leader
Today’s organizations face complex problems. The way you respond to problems will determine your level of success as a leader.
“Leadership is solving problems”
Colin Powell
Are you enhancing your problem-solving skills?
Your leadership guide,
Kim
Dr. Kim Moore | Your Leadership Guide | kimdmoore.com
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