Solve the problem, don't avoid it

The main difference I have experienced from being a recruitment consultant working for a company compared to being a Recruitment consultant that owns the business is the conversations that I am having with business owners around the challenges they are facing - it’s been incredible.?

Challenges can come in different forms such as financial, operational, or marketing related. The ability to successfully overcome these challenges is what will enable that business to grow.?

Over the past 6 months, I have learnt how business leaders have overcome or plan to overcome these challenges and there is a similar pattern that I have started to see. I thought I would share what I have learnt!?

Below are suggestions on how to approach solving challenges that you might be facing:

1. Identify and accept the problem:?

The first step in overcoming any challenge is to clearly define the problem. Being specific is going to be critical in making sure you focus your time in the right place.?

Ask yourself questions like: What is the real issue here? Why did this problem occur? What are the consequences of not solving this problem? Once you have a clear understanding of the problem, you can move to the next step.

2. Gather Information:?

To solve a problem effectively, you need to have all the necessary information. This may involve conducting research, gathering data, or speaking to relevant stakeholders. The goal is to collect as much information as possible to help you make an informed decision.?

Make sure you are gaining relevant information, if you are picking up information about other issues that are not relevant to this issue, put it to one side and start the process from the start with that information.

3. Analyse the information:?

Once you have all the necessary information, it's time to analyse it. Look for patterns, trends, and potential solutions. This is where you need to think outside the box and explore different options. Don't limit yourself to the obvious solutions, but rather, be creative and consider all possible scenarios.?

This is also a good time to reach out to neutral-minded people to gain different perspectives on the information you have gathered. Remember, you are not asking for a solution, just their perspective

4. Develop a plan:?

Based on your analysis, develop a plan of action. This should include specific steps that need to be taken to solve the problem. Assign responsibilities, agree on timeframes, and establish agreed indicators to measure progress. Make sure the plan is realistic and achievable, but also challenging enough to push you and your team to perform at their best.

5. Implement the plan:?

Once you have a plan in place, it's time to put it into action. Communicate the plan to your team, and ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities. Monitor progress closely, and make adjustments as needed.

Remember, your job isn’t done. This is arguably the most critical part of the process!?

6. Evaluate the results:

?After implementing the plan, evaluate the results. Did you achieve the desired outcome? If not, why not? What could have been done differently? Use the insights gained to improve your problem-solving approach in the future.

Make sure you are honest with yourself, as this will be how you do better next time.?

Overcoming challenges is a critical skill for any business leader. This six-step plan could help you structure your approach to problem-solving and increase your chances of success. Remember, challenges are opportunities for growth and improvement, so embrace them and use them to propel your business forward.