Got Problems? This is one of the most important things an executive leader can do for their teams.
I recently said in a meeting, "Great leaders do two things for their teams. They make resources appear, and they make problems ago away."
Leaders are often seen as problem-solvers. They are expected to find solutions to challenges that their organizations face, and to take steps to ensure that those solutions are implemented effectively. However, sometimes problems can seem intractable, and it can be hard to know where to start. Let's explore some strategies that leaders can use to help make problems go away.
Take a step back
Sometimes when we're faced with a problem, our first instinct is to jump right in and start trying to fix it. However, this can sometimes make the problem worse. Before you start trying to solve the problem, take a step back and try to get a broader perspective on the situation. What are the root causes of the problem? What are the likely consequences if the problem is not addressed? Taking a few minutes to reflect on these questions can help you develop a more effective strategy for solving the problem.
Identify the underlying causes
Once you have a better understanding of the problem, it's important to identify the underlying causes. Often, what appears to be a surface-level problem is actually the result of deeper, underlying issues. For example, if your team is constantly missing deadlines, the problem may not be a lack of motivation or effort on their part, but rather a lack of clear communication or inadequate resources. By identifying the underlying causes of the problem, you can address them more effectively and prevent the problem from recurring in the future.
Involve others in the problem-solving process
As a leader, you may be tempted to take on the problem-solving process by yourself. However, involving others in the process can be much more effective. Not only does this help to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals, but it also allows you to benefit from the unique perspectives and experiences of your team members. By working together, you can come up with more creative and effective solutions to the problem.
Communicate clearly and frequently
Effective communication is key to solving problems. As a leader, it's important to communicate clearly and frequently with your team about the problem and your plans for addressing it. This helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals. It also helps to build trust and confidence in your leadership, which can be important in keeping your team motivated and engaged.
Be willing to make tough decisions
Sometimes, solving a problem requires making tough decisions. As a leader, it's important to be willing to make those decisions, even if they are unpopular or difficult. This can be especially challenging if the problem involves people or processes that are familiar to you. However, it's important to remember that your ultimate responsibility is to the success of the organization as a whole, and sometimes tough decisions are necessary to achieve that success.
Stay positive and focused
Finally, it's important to stay positive and focused throughout the problem-solving process. This can be challenging, especially if the problem is complex or long-standing. However, staying positive and focused can help you to maintain your energy and motivation, and to keep your team engaged and committed to the problem-solving process. Remember that solving a problem is not always easy, but it is always possible.
Leaders have an important role to play in solving problems within their organizations. By taking a step back, identifying the underlying causes of the problem, involving others in the problem-solving process, communicating clearly and frequently, being willing to make tough decisions, and staying positive and focused, leaders can help to make problems go away. While there are no guarantees when it comes to problem-solving, these strategies can help to increase the likelihood of success and minimize the negative impact of the problem on the organization.
If you're looking for support on how to better lead your team, please consider reaching out to me.
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Jason Paddock