We all face problems and challenges in our jobs.
When I have a problem and need guidance besides bringing the problem, I also like to bring a solution to the council at the same time.
The Council doesn't always see it my way, but at least they know I have been thinking about the problem and how to fix it.
I came across this article and it really resonated with me:
Don't Bring Problems to Your Manager / City Council-- Bring Solutions
In today's workplace, if you want to stand out as a valued employee, don't bring problems to your manager / city council - bring solutions.
Why?
Because there are too many problems for them to solve all by themselves; that's why you were hired.
So don't be part of a problem.
Become a solution-generating employee and you'll increase your value to your manager and to the company.
Jim Rohn, an American author, once said, "To solve any problem, there are three questions to ask yourself:
First, what could I do?
Second, what could I read?
And third, who could I ask?"
These are excellent questions to consider, but for more complex problems, I like to follow what's known as the rational decision-making model.
The rational decision-making model has been around for countless years in the scientific community and within the study of organizational behavior.
It's the process I've used throughout my career because it follows a very logical step-by-step approach that makes it easy for me to explain how I reached my recommendation.
Problem-solving steps:
Step 1 - Identify the problem. This is where you explain the problem situation.
Keep asking "Why?" to continue diving deeper to discover the root cause of the problem.
Step 2 - Determine solution criteria. Define the goals and objectives the solution must satisfy.
These might include staying within a certain cost level or time frame.
Step 3 - Generate potential solutions.
Brainstorm all possible solutions.
Depending on the complexity of the problem, it may be important to include subject matter experts in this step.
Step 4 - Analyze each potential solution.
Analyze each potential solution against the criteria (goals and objectives).
Which solution makes the most sense based on your constraints such as budget, personnel resources and time?
I sometimes create a table that lists each solution and each criterion with check marks or brief comments to rate each solution against all the various criteria.
Step 5 - Select the best solution.
Based on your evaluation, choose the best solution and why it makes the most sense.
Step 6 - Determine an implementation plan.
Determine how the recommended solution could be implemented and tracked for success.
This is the "who, when, where and how" description. If possible, include cost and time estimates.
Step 7 - Document the information.
Include the information from steps one through six in a one-page document (absolutely no more than two pages!).
Keeping your document short will force you to carefully think through the situation and get right to the point.
Step 8 - Meet with your boss.
Most managers / councils are short on time, so putting your information into a concise document makes it easier when you meet to discuss your ideas.
Going through this process isn't always easy, but by following this model, the process will become ingrained in your brain and, over time, you'll be able to think through these steps quickly and easily.
Next time, don't bring a problem to your manager / council, use the rational decision-making model and bring the solution instead.
Then watch your value as an employee increase.
~ Lisa Quast
Cheers
Shelly DIllon