Some individuals are naturally born problem solvers and others are no, and there’s no shame if you fall into the latter category. What matters more is the time and effort you take to learn how to tackle problems more successfully in order to guarantee that your business does not suffer for it.
If you’re finding problem-solving a little tricky, don’t ignore the issue: instead, take the following steps to improve your handling methods.
Take Your Time When Finding a Solution
It may be that you’re aware that there is a problem, but you’re not entirely sure what the problem is. Proper research, time and care is essential when tackling an issue, and only when you’ve found the specific problem can you effectively work towards its solution.
Often with large companies, the people at the top may demand an immediate solution for a problem which they don’t understand, and here lack of communication can make the problem worse.
It’s better to take significantly longer to find the perfect solution than it is to rush through an immediate solution which might be the wrong one.
Undergo a Training Course
Problem-solving is a skill that can be learned. If you’re not a natural problem solver, or you’re finding that you’re lacking when it comes to your business, a relevant training course could be a huge advantage to you. Not only to build your personal skills but to assist your business in its success, too. Six Sigma Yellow Belt Training offers a professional course in better navigation through business as well as how to address problems more efficiently.
Tackle All Possibilities for the Problem’s Caused
It may be that several failings within the business may be causing one specific problem. Once you have found one cause, you shouldn’t be so quick to cancel out the possibility of more.
For example, if your main problem is that you aren’t achieving the desired number of sales in a certain period, the cause of this could be many things, including:
- Inexperienced sales staff
- Bad marketing
- A negative sales process after a consumer has decided to place an order, which may deter them from ordering again
- Issues with the quality of product
Therefore, if you find the cause of the problem initially to be bad marketing, you shouldn’t then dismiss all other possibilities and focus all your attention on improving your marketing. The other points in this list will still service to drag down your sales quota even if you resolve the marketing issue. So be sure to address all the on-going issues that you are facing to avoid making no progress at all.
Delegate During the Solution Process
Problems can best be tackled by a dedicated team, and you shouldn’t bear the burden yourself if it can be avoided. Solutions can be implemented much faster if you have a team of employees working on it, with the same goal in mind. Encourage better communication between team members when a problem arises in order to get the best results and open the floor to helpful suggestions and information.
