A good problem solving tip for leaders is to identify the shortest path to a solution. Often, you can become distracted by all of the potential solutions and end up doing nothing to solve the problem. It’s a form of procrastination.
In this episode of our Employee Productivity series, you’ll learn how I realized this powerful tip when, one day, my front door would not open.
What Productivity Questions Does This Video Answer?
- How to make better decisions at work?
- How can I solve problems faster?
- Why should I not wait to solve a problem at work?
- What is the best solution for a problem at work?
Video Transcript for Problem Solving Tip
Do you spend a lot of time looking for the perfect solution to your problems at work? The problem with trying to find the perfect solution is that it can take a lot of time. Sometimes, the fastest route to a good answer is all you need.
Let me give you an example. Recently, I went to the gym in the morning. Wanted to work out. Came home. Couldn’t open the front door. It turns out the lock had broke.
At this point in time, I had to call a locksmith. Have him come over. Drill out the lock. Put in a new one.
That was the fastest course of action for me to get into my home. Use my phone, look up some locksmiths, call one. Get one over, boom, done.
I didn’t spend a lot of time debating whether I could get the work done myself, whether I should do some sort of bidding contest, to see who should come over. I realized the best way for me to get out of my sweaty clothes, get into my home, and have breakfast was to call a locksmith and have that person do the job.
It was the fastest way to solve the problem. Sometimes, we can become delayed, trying to save a couple of bucks, hoping that something will get better down the road, like some sort of software.
When we have an immediate problem that requires an immediate solution, you don’t want to delay that process. I’m all for finding a great bargain or waiting until version 2.0 comes out. But if you’ve got a problem today don’t wait too long before you solve it.
About This Video Series
Ken Okel’s ongoing Employee Productivity video series will make you more effective on the job. Every week, you’ll learn a new, easy to understand, problem solving tip that you can use right away, like communication tips for leaders.
Tired of a productivity problem, like undefined work life boundaries? Let us know and we’ll feature it in an upcoming episode.
About Ken Okel
As a motivational speaker, Ken Okel works with leaders and organizations to boost productivity, performance, and profits. At conferences, conventions, and company meetings, he engages audiences with new ways to maximize their time at work. To see a sample of his keynote and workshop presentations, visit his video page.
