Problem-Solving in the Workplace: Developing This Skill for Career Success

Sales, at its very core, is all about problem-solving.

Maybe you’re sitting at your desk, facing a towering stack of work with a pressing deadline when suddenly it hits you: you have no idea how to even begin tackling this problem.

Maybe you're in a meeting, and the discussion has come to a grinding halt because no one can seem to agree on a solution. Or perhaps a prospect approaches you with a challenge you’ve never seen before – and you can’t think of any answers on the spot.

In moments like these, what separates the successful from the unsuccessful is their ability to solve problems. Luckily, that’s a skill you can develop with time and practice!

So let’s take a look at what problem-solving is, why it's important, and some tips on how to develop it in the workplace!

What Is Problem-Solving?

Let's start with the basics! Problem-solving is the process of identifying solutions to challenges or obstacles that you're facing and it involves:

1. Breaking down what the problem is in the first place
2. Understanding what outcomes you (and those around you) would like to achieve
3. Thinking of multiple possible solutions
4. Picking the best option given the information you have
5. Putting a solution in motion

To be a good problem-solver, you need to be able to think critically and creatively, take others' perspectives into account, and maintain a positive attitude even when things are tough.

In the workplace, problem-solving often happens as part of a team effort; after all, two (or more) heads are often better than one. But even if you're working solo, being able to solve problems is still essential to getting the job done.

Why Is Problem-Solving Important?

Solving problems quickly and effectively is important for several reasons. But above them, all is one simple fact: every sales job requires some level of problem-solving.

That aside, problem-solving serves other important purposes, too:

• Being a good problem-solver shows that you're resourceful and adaptable — two qualities that are highly valued in any workplace.
• Having the capability to identify solutions to challenges demonstrates that you have good judgment and decision-making skills which are essential for Career Success.
• Good problem-solvers can overcome stress and tend to perform better overall.

If you can find solutions to challenges quickly, you can focus on getting your work done instead of dwelling on the problem itself.

Tips for Developing Your Problem-Solving Skills For Career Success

Now that we know what problem-solving is and why it's important, let's discuss some tips for developing this skill in the workplace!

1) Be proactive instead of reactive.

Don't wait for problems to happen before you start thinking about solutions. Instead, anticipate challenges before they arise and brainstorm possible solutions beforehand.

This will help you stay one step ahead of the game and be better prepared when a problem does pop up.

2) Think things through before making a decision.

When faced with a challenge, it can be tempting to just go with your gut instead thinking things through. But this isn't always the best course of action!

PRO TIP: Instead of jumping into action mode, take time to assess the situation from all angles and weigh your options. This way, you're more likely to come up with an effective solution that takes everyone's needs into account.

3) Practice brainstorming with others.

Brainstorming is an essential part of problem-solving; after all, two (or more) heads are often better than one.

To become better at brainstorming solutions with others, try practicing with others! Meet with your friends or family outside of work, or with colleagues using real-world scenarios.

This way, you'll get used to coming up with creative solutions under pressure without the added stress of being in an active situation.

4) Learn from your mistakes — and successes too!

When you make a mistake at work (and we all do from time to time), use it as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Reflect on what went wrong and what you can do differently next time so you don't make the same mistake again. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback, either—others might catch things you missed!

When you have a successful scenario, take time to think about what went well so that you can replicate your results in the future.

Become Your True Problem-Solving Self

Problem-solving skills are critical for Career Success in any workplace, but especially in tech sales!

By being proactive, taking time to think things through, practicing brainstorming with others, and learning from your mistakes and successes, you can develop these skills over time and become a valuable asset to any team.

At Uvaro, not only do we connect you with Career Coaches who have solved tons of problems before (and who are hungry to share their knowledge), but we also give you opportunities to practice and sharpen your problem-solving skills with your peers, too.

Check out our Career Success Catalog and get ready to become a problem-solving machine!