Problem-solving is all about using logic and a little bit of imagination, to make sense of a situation and come up with an intelligent (or sometimes unconventional) solution. Good leaders evaluate information and draw accurate conclusions, assessing a problem from multiple angles to ensure all relevant issues are considered. In fact, the best problem solvers go one step further and actively anticipate potential future problems and act to prevent them or to mitigate their effects.  But how can leaders make good decisions in a crisis? 

As the global pandemic eases and normality returning, businesses have again had to react to the change. The business model, products and even their customers have had to adapt to the world we are living in now. Problem-solving during a crisis can often feel personal, especially when it impacts individuals or teams that we manage. Keeping focused on the tasks at hand, as well as clearly communicating and planning for the impact of the decisions on colleagues, teams and customers becomes crucial to the plans. 

Here you will learn how decisions are made, even in a crisis; and how you as a leader can guide your team through the changes being made. 

Learning to stretch our thinking skills is integral to accelerating our development. This is a really important part of the learning process, and gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your skills and show progression in your Apprenticeship.

Here are two challenges for you to pick from- should you choose to accept, this will help you to develop critical thinking, evaluation skills and encourage creativity.

Challenge 1

Identify an example where you have had to solve a problem at work. Critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your process and outcome to solve the problem. Consider the aim, outcome and methods/strategies you used and alternative solutions. Conclude if the solution was effective or not, justifying your reasoning.  

Reflect on your problem-solving skills identifying areas of strength and areas for development. Discuss your evaluation and justify your recommendations with your Talent Coach and agree on an action plan to take the next development steps. 

Challenge 2

Managing change is an important factor when solving problems or making decisions. Often this can be challenging. To the left, you will find some resources considering aspects of managing change. 

Identify a change your organisation has implemented recently. Critically evaluate the level of resistance to this change within the organisation, considering the communication to staff or clients, the success of the implementation and any steps taken to mitigate resistance to this change. Conclude if you feel the change was successfully implemented and make recommendations as to how this process could have been improved. Discuss your evaluation and justify your recommendations with your Talent Coach.

Update your Learning Journal in OneFile with your evaluation and your reflections ready to discuss with your Talent Coach at your next review.