Category Archives for Problem Solving

5 Hazards to Effective Problem Solving

Solving problems is part and parcel of the role of a leader and manager. Good managers and leaders understand this and cultivate the skills and expertise to become effective problem solvers. At the same time, they are alert to 5 common hazards that can get in the way of effective problem solving. Hazard 1: Fixing […]

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Handling Difficult Situations – The Importance Of Preparation

As a leader, you are going to face many challenges. Periodically these challenges will fall into the category of what might best be described as difficult. For example, you might be leading a division, department or even organisation that is not performing. Some form of turnaround is required to get better results. When faced with […]

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Why Managers Don’t Deal With The Difficult Stuff

Unless you are one of those very unique and fortunate people, chances are you are going to have to deal with some difficult stuff from time to time as a manager. Difficulties show up in a number of guises for managers, including: The employee who is not delivering what is expected in terms of performance […]

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Why Leaders and Managers Don’t Respond To Performance Issues

If you are in any type of leadership or management role, the chances are that sooner or later you will have to deal with some sort of performance issue. These performance issues can show up in a whole host of different ways.

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Using Brainstorming Effectively In Problem Solving

When faced with a problem or challenge, it is all too easy to fall into the trap of not thinking widely enough. Brainstorming is a technique which is highly effective in coming up with a range of options for tackling problems or challenges. The basic idea behind brainstorming is to allow the free flow of […]

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Problem Solving: How to Avoid Pouring Cold Water on Good Ideas

As a leader or manager, your ability to solve problems is a key contributor to your success. Trouble is that people, in their desire to get an answer and move on to the next thing, fail to effectively deal with problems. Often part of the challenge is that people either: Fail to explore the problem […]

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Change Management Skills

I was reading in the November 2008 edition of the magazine Professional Manager that the Chartered Management Institute’s President Sir John Sunderland sees Change Management as one of the most in demand skills over the next 10 years. In the currently challenging economy it is easy to see why that would be the case.  I am […]

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