Problem solving is a key skill that’s universally required: entrepreneurs and business employees alike will benefit from the ability to find the cause of complex problems and solve them. While problem solving may be a difficult skill to master, there are many things that an individual can do to improve their abilities in this regard.
What Are Problem-Solving Skills?
First of all, it’s important to identify what problem-solving skills actually are. In general, they’re the consistent use of techniques that allow a person to understand the causes of a problem, overcome short-term crises and create strategies to resolve longer-term problems. Great problem-solvers are also able to turn problems into opportunities.

Identifying the Problem
Successful CEOs – such as Rob Tolley – recognise that an individual must become adept at identifying the underlying problem to become a better problem-solver. This involves separating out the symptoms from the cause. This is likely to take some time and will involve undertaking research to get to the root of the issue.
Visualise the Issue
In some cases, a visual representation of the situation can help to solve problems. A simple diagram of the process or situation that’s an issue can reveal its inherent complexities and prevent it from seeming overwhelming. Visually mapping out both the existing problem and a possible solution can be an excellent way to bring clarity and clearly define the problem area.
Try Creating Psychological Distance
Psychological distance can be a powerful tool in the problem-solving arsenal. According to some experts, creating this distance between a person and the problem they’re trying to solve can lead to an increase in creative solutions. It’s believed that creating psychological distance from the problem can help individuals think in a more abstract manner and therefore form unexpected connections.
Rob Tolley, former London broker, knows that psychological distance can be achieved by thinking of the problem as unlikely or deliberately viewing it from another person’s perspective.
Measure Problem-Solving Success
As part of the process of becoming a better problem solver, it’s important to measure one’s problem-solving success. For example, how does the solution measure up against the goals and objectives set, has the budget been overstretched, and was there a measurable outcome? Part of becoming a great problem-solver is learning the ability to recognise not only where a solution has succeeded but also where one has failed – and learning from this for next time.
For more information about enhancing problem-solving skills, take a look at the embedded PDF.
