May
8
Productivity Tip: Bring Solutions
Filed Under Everyday Tips
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I believe one of the biggest time wasters is taking a problem to your boss. I know this from experience, mind you. There was a time, in the past, that I would approach my boss with problem after problem, expecting him to offer immediate solutions. After all, he’s the boss. He should be a big, bad problem- solving machine, right?
Wrong.
The truth of the matter is this: they don’t want to hear our problems. They have enough to worry about without our help. And, as much as it might pain us to admit, our bosses don’t know everything. In fact, many of the problems I used to take to my boss fell right back on my lap.
“What do you suggest?”
That was his typical response to a problem or issue I brought to his attention. It didn’t take me long to figure out that I should have those suggestions ready to go when he asked. Otherwise, I’d end up standing there, stammering away trying to come up with something off the top of my head. Or, I’d slip up and let my mouth move without thinking. And I’d say something stupid like, “I have no idea. That’s why I’m asking you.”
Believe me…this sentiment doesn’t go over well with a boss who believes he’s hired someone with a brain.
Most of the time, when I took a problem to my boss he wanted to know my recommendation for a solution. If I didn’t have one, I was sent back to go come up with one. So you see? It was a complete waste of time to even start the conversation. And it always made me feel incredibly frustrated.
So here’s the rule I live by, that I would suggest everyone follow: never approach your boss with a problem unless you also have a solution. Or, even better, a list of several possible solutions (this way, you can let him or her choose).
Use all of your analytical skills to come up with at least one possible resolution to the problem before you even consider taking it to your boss. If you absolutely, positively, 100% cannot think of a single reasonable solution, work backwards and list all the solutions that DON’T work and why. At least this way you can show your boss that you’ve eliminated every possible solution you could come up with.
This may seem obvious enough, but it can be very tempting to throw your hands up in the air and say, “I need help!” without ever really putting on the old thinking cap. Don’t let this happen. Your boss won’t appreciate it and 9 times out of 10, he’ll put the problem back on your shoulders to deal with. Research, ask others for help, test out ideas. Do whatever you have to do.
But heed my warning: bring solutions the first time…or you’ll have to do it later anyway!
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Good advice, Chrissy! I’ve learned this the hard way, just as you have. Keep those great posts coming; they’re timely, practical and oh so useful!