7 Problem-Solving Skills That Can Help You Be a More Successful Manager

Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of a particular department, and sometimes a whole company, using their problem-solving skills regularly. Managers with good problem-solving skills can help ensure companies run smoothly and prosper.

If you're a current manager or are striving to become one, read this guide to discover what problem-solving skills are and why it's important for managers to have them. Learn the steps of the problem-solving process, and explore seven skills that can help make problem-solving easier and more effective.

What is problem-solving?

Problem-solving is both an ability and a process. As an ability, problem-solving can aid in resolving issues faced in different environments like home, school, abroad, and social situations, among others. As a process, problem-solving involves a series of steps for finding solutions to questions or concerns that arise throughout life.

What are the four P’s of problem-solving?

The four P’s of problem-solving are problem, plan, people, and process. You first define your problem, you then develop a plan, determine the people involved, then begin and refine the process. You might see this process broken down into additional steps or processes, but remembering these core pillars can help you define and refine your problem-solving steps. 

The importance of problem-solving for managers

Managers deal with problems regularly, whether supervising a staff of two or 100. When people solve problems quickly and effectively, workplaces can benefit in a number of ways. These include:

• Greater creativity

• Higher productivity

• Increased job fulfillment

• Satisfied clients or customers

• Better cooperation and cohesion

• Improved environments for employees and customers

7 skills that make problem-solving easier

Companies depend on managers who can solve problems adeptly. Although problem-solving is a skill in its own right, a subset of seven skills can help make the process of problem-solving easier. So, what are problem-solving skills that can help you navigate challenges in the workplace effectively? Some ones to note include analysis, communication, emotional intelligence, resilience, creativity, adaptability, and teamwork.

1. Analysis

As a manager, you'll solve each problem by assessing the situation first. Then, you’ll use analytical skills to distinguish between ineffective and effective solutions.

2. Communication

Effective communication plays a significant role in problem-solving, particularly when you are finding solutions alongside others. Some skills that can help enhance communication at work include active listening, speaking with an even tone and volume, and supporting verbal information with written communication.

3. Emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize and manage emotions in any situation. People with emotional intelligence usually solve problems calmly and systematically, which often yields better results.

4. Resilience

Emotional intelligence and resilience are closely related traits. Resiliency is the ability to cope with and bounce back quickly from difficult situations. Those who possess resilience are often capable of accurately interpreting people and situations, which can be incredibly advantageous when difficulties arise.

5. Creativity 

When brainstorming solutions to problems, creativity can help you to think outside the box. You can enhance problem-solving strategies with the application of creative techniques. You can use creativity to:

• Approach problems from different angles

• Improve your problem-solving process

• Spark creativity in your employees and peers

6. Adaptability

Adaptability is the capacity to adjust to change. When a particular solution to an issue doesn't work, an adaptable person can revisit the concern to think up another one without getting frustrated.

7. Teamwork

Finding a solution to a problem regularly involves working in a team. Good teamwork requires being comfortable working with others and collaborating with them, which can result in better problem-solving overall.

How to improve problem-solving skills

Learning how to develop your problem-solving skills takes time and effort, but several steps can help you succeed. You can start building your problem-solving skills through a combination of active listening, positive engagement with team members, and cultivating a positive mindset. By creating a positive atmosphere, you can provide a safe space for trial and error, diverse thought processes, and effective team discussions.

Steps of the problem-solving process

Effective problem-solving involves five essential steps. One way to remember them is through the IDEAL model created in 1984 by psychology professors John D. Bransford and Barry S. Stein [1]. The steps to solving problems in this model include: identifying the problem, defining the goals you hope to achieve, exploring potential solutions, choosing a solution and acting on it, and looking at (or evaluating) the outcome.

1. Identify the problem and root out its cause.

To solve a problem, you must first admit that one exists to then find its root cause. Finding the cause of the problem may involve asking questions like:

• Can the problem be solved?

• How big of a problem is it?

• Why do I think the problem is occurring?

• What are some things I know about the situation?

• What are some things I don't know about the situation?

• Are there any people who contributed to the problem?

• Are there materials or processes that contributed to the problem?

• Are there any patterns I can identify?

2. Define the goals you hope to achieve.

Every problem is different. The goals you hope to achieve when problem-solving depends on the scope of the problem. Some examples of goals you might set include:

• Gather as much factual information as possible.

• Brainstorm many different strategies to come up with the best one.

• Be flexible when considering other viewpoints.

• Articulate clearly and encourage questions so everyone involved is on the same page.

• Be open to other strategies if the chosen strategy doesn't work.

• Stay positive throughout the process.

3. Explore potential solutions.

Once you've defined the goals you hope to achieve when problem-solving, it's time to start the process. This involves steps that often include fact-finding, brainstorming, prioritizing solutions, and assessing the cost of top solutions in terms of time, labor, and money.

4. Choose a solution and act on it.

Evaluate the pros and cons of each potential solution, and choose the one most likely to solve the problem within your given budget, abilities, and resources. Once you choose a solution, it's important to make a commitment and see it through. Draw up a plan of action for implementation, and share it with all involved parties clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing. Make sure everyone understands their role for a successful conclusion.

5. Look at (or evaluate) the outcome.

Evaluation offers insights into your current situation and future problem-solving. When evaluating the outcome, ask yourself questions like:

• Did the solution work?

• Will this solution work for other problems?

• Were there any changes you would have made?

• Would another solution have worked better?

Improve your problem-solving skills with Coursera

Problem-solving skills such as adaptability, communication, and teamwork can help you find creative solutions to complex challenges. As a current or future manager looking to build your problem-solving skills, you might find it helpful to take a professional course. Consider Improving Communication Skills offered by the University of Pennsylvania on Coursera. You'll learn how to boost your ability to persuade, ask questions, negotiate, apologize, and more. 

You might also consider taking Emotional Intelligence: Cultivating Immensely Human Interactions, offered by the University of Michigan on Coursera. You'll explore the interpersonal and intrapersonal skills common to people with emotional intelligence, and you'll learn how emotional intelligence connects to team success and leadership.

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