HOW TO SOLVE PROBLEMS

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HOW TO SOLVE PROBLEMS

Most problems can be solved when people work together. Good communication is important in problem-solving. A few ground rules make communicating more effective.

Keep it simple. State your complaint clearly. Identify the problem.
Suggest a solution. It's not enough to just complain or to say there's a problem. Suggest a change that you think will solve the problem.
Focus on one item at a time. If you try to deal with too many problems at once, you may not correct any of them. Think about the one issue that troubles you. Don't consider other concerns until you take care of the first issue.
Ask for and give feedback. Say what you need to say and let the other person answer. That way you are sure you understand what the other person wants. Always check things out. Don't try to guess how someone will react to an idea. Ask questions.
Keep an open mind. Be aware of your own feelings and consider the feelings of others. Don't tell others what they should know, or do, or feel.
Be willing to compromise. The other person's point of view may be just as true as yours. Look for answers that bring both views together.
Take your time.Think carefully before you speak. If the problem is important enough, take the time to find the right solution.
Remember that everybody wins. When you follow the rules of good problem-solving -- everyone wins.

Written material may be reprinted provided no endorsement of a commercial product is stated or implied. Please credit University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension and the Nebraska Health and Human Services System.

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Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Elbert C. Dickey, Interim Director of Cooperative Extension, University of Nebraska, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
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