Problem-solving skills: definitions and examples
Problem-solving skills are skills that enable people to handle unexpected situations or difficult challenges at work. Organisations need people who can accurately assess problems and come up with effective solutions. In this article, we explain what problem-solving skills are, provide some examples of these skills and outline how to improve them.
Problem-solving skills help you determine the source of a problem and find an effective solution. Whilst problem-solving is often identified as a separate skill, there are other related skills that contribute to this ability. These skills include the following:
- Active listening
- Analysis
- Research
- Creativity
- Communication
- Time-management
- Decision making
- Team-building
Problem-solving skills are vital at all levels in many careers, and effective problem-solving may also require job- or industry-specific technical skills. For instance, an optician or a florist will need active listening and communication skills when interacting with customers but will also need effective technical knowledge related to products and sales.
To solve a problem effectively, you need to use a range of different skills. Here are some examples of the skills and abilities you may use when solving a problem at work:
- Research
- Analysis
- Decision-making
- Communication
- Creativity
- Research
How to improve your problem-solving skills
There are several methods you can use to improve your problem-solving skills. Whether you are searching for a job or currently working, improving your problem-solving skills can strengthen your candidacy. Here are steps you can follow to improve your problem-solving skills:
- Gain extra technical knowledge.
- Look for opportunities to solve problems.
- Practise problems.
- Learn from others.
- Become solution-focused.
- Try to simplify.
- Brainstorm ideas.
- Take a break when you need to.
- Use a notepad.
Source: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/jobs-and-work-experience/job-sectors/retail/jobs-in-retail