7 Problem-Solving Skills for Workplace Success

Key takeaways

Problem-solving skills are important in a wide range of careers, enabling you to make decisions effectively.

• When following the problem-solving process, it’s helpful to remember the IDEAL method, developed by two psychology professors, John D. Bransford and Barry S. Stein [1].

• The first step to solving a problem is to acknowledge that a problem exists and then identify the root cause.

• You can improve your problem-solving skills by becoming a better communicator, improving your adaptability, and relying on teamwork.

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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, such as 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 problem-solving skills used for?

Most careers require some problem-solving skills. Problem-solving helps businesses and people advance. It allows you to question, make connections, and consider alternatives, which helps you improve processes, make decisions, and develop new products and innovations.

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

What are the four Ps of problem-solving?

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

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 the 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.

Read more: Important Teamwork Skills and How to Improve Yours

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, and 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 depend 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?

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