I find it really interesting how themes seem to evolve at times.
Last week was the final day for the February Leading Yourself and Leading Others experience.
On the last day we put all of the skills learned over the previous days into action as we follow Thomas Gordon’s 6 step method to resolve conflict.
The same 6 steps can also be used for process improvement and creative problem solving.
Let me give you an example.
Imagine that the problem to be solved is how to cover the unexpected absence of a team member (they have been rushed to hospital with appendicitis).
The first thing to be aware of, is that most people come up with their own solution and then fight for it.
Jack thinks we should hire a temp to cover the absence.
Mary thinks we should offer overtime to the current staff.
John thinks we should outsource the work to a virtual assistant.
Jack, Mary and John will continue to provide evidence and support for their chosen solution.
This only prolongs the process and can cause arguments and resentment.
The way to resolve this is to keep coming back to the question, “What is the problem to be solved?”
When we focus on the problem to be solved, we find that there are always numerous potential solutions.
Here’s an example. The kids are playing in the TV room and Brian wants to listen to the news. His solution is to send the kids out of the room.
What’s the problem to be solved?
If you said Brian wants to listen to the news, you are correct.
What other possible solutions are there apart from sending the kids out of the room?
Let’s brainstorm. Brian could put headphones on. He could go to another room. He could record the news. He could listen on the computer. You get the idea.
When you ask yourself, “What’s the problem to be solved?” you focus on the problem rather than fighting for your solution.
Here are the 6 steps to help you find a solution:
- Identify each person’s needs (that’s everyone’s needs in relation to the issue, no judgement, simply listen and understand)
- Brainstorm possible solutions (do not be tempted to evaluate at this stage, all solutions need to be accepted and recorded)
- Evaluate the solutions (now it’s time to look at the pros and cons, maybe a suggestion could be modified)
- Choose a solution (everyone must agree)
- Implement the solution (decide who does what and when)
- Review the solution (after implementation, review what worked and what could be improved)
If you have an issue you’d like to run through the 6 steps, I suggest you circulate the process to the team ahead of time. This gives them time to think about their needs and arrive ready to discuss, with the desired outcome that you get to step 4 in the time available.
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