Are problem solving skills coming between you and your dream job?
Obviously, the ability to solve problems involves having analytic skills in finding solutions. This may involve facing the problem straight on, doing further research of the problem's background, and even thinking outside the box to solve problems. Problem solving skills, after all, does not only mean providing a solution to the problem, but also looking at all avenues on how to solve an issue.
A good majority of problems in business or in the workplace may involve more than one solution. Some issues can be dealt with creatively, while some involve a no-nonsense approach. The thing is, in a lot of cases, a solution borne out of a non-nonsense approach and an out-of-the-box solution may both work. An employer with astute problem solving skills would be able to recognize the merits of both solutions and decide on which solution to implement.
There are also issues that may also need to be solved right away. An employee with commendable problem solving skills would be mature and decisive to work on a solution. There are situations wherein a healthy dose of pragmatism is recommended, and having the maturity to explore the course of action is essential. Moreover, as mentioned earlier, there are situations wherein more than one solution comes up.
So, how does someone with good problem solving skills deal with so many solutions? Someone with good problem solving skills should be decisive enough to choose which solution to implement and not waver during the process. Of course, there needs to be a sense of urgency on when an issue should be addressed. After all, there are some situations that need to be addressed right away, and others that could benefit from longer time periods of careful deliberation.
Putting it on your resume           Â                                                                                                                                           Â
Like most other functional skills, problem solving skills and analysis would look better on a résumé if worded through examples rather than by blatantly writing "good problem solving skills." Remember to use active rather than passive lead words. For example:
Chief Information Officer, College Historical Society
"¢Â Conceived, planned and launched "Refer-a-Friend" program to increase dormant membership figures by 75%
How about for interviews?
Interviews are a perfect opportunity for you to showcase your problem solving skills.
So that you won't end up sounding full of yourself, include in your answer how the challenge affected you. Tell what you did as it is, without adding fluff to make you look impressive. The more exaggerations you add to your answer, the more unreliable you will sound. Explain in detail how you employed decisiveness, timeliness, and analytic mindedness to overcome the challenge you faced. Lastly, conclude your answer with the lessons you've learned from the experience so that you won't end on an awkward self-congratulatory note that will make you sound like you are impressed by your own brilliance.
Companies value the skill of problem solving because the world is full of challenges, issues, and concerns that we have to either overcome to turn around in our favor. All of us have the ability to be problem solvers, but the capacity to be quick, analytical, and creative in turning predicaments into opportunities will be what companies want and will be looking for in prospective and current employees.
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