what does strong problem solving skills mean

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What Are Problem-Solving Skills? (Definition, Examples, And How To List On A Resume)

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Summary. Problem-solving skills include analysis, creativity, prioritization, organization, and troubleshooting. To solve a problem, you need to use a variety of skills based on the needs of the situation. Most jobs essentially boil down to identifying and solving problems consistently and effectively. That’s why employers value problem-solving skills in job candidates for just about every role. We’ll cover problem-solving methods, ways to improve your problem-solving skills, and examples of showcasing your problem-solving skills during your job search . Key Takeaways: If you can show off your problem-solving skills on your resume , in your cover letter , and during a job interview, you’ll be one step closer to landing a job. Companies rely on employees who can handle unexpected challenges, identify persistent issues, and offer workable solutions in a positive way. It is important to improve problem solving skill because this is a skill that can be cultivated and nurtured so you can become better at dealing with problems over time. In This Article    Skip to section What Are Problem Solving Skills? Types of Problem-Solving Skills How to Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills Example Answers to Problem-Solving Interview Questions How to Show Off Problem-Solving Skills on a Resume Example Resume and Cover Letter With Problem-Solving Skills More About Problem-Solving Skills Problem Solving Skills FAQs References Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs Show More What Are Problem Solving Skills?

Problem-solving skills are skills that help you identify and solve problems effectively and efficiently . Your ability to solve problems is one of the main ways that hiring managers and recruiters assess candidates, as those with excellent problem-solving skills are more likely to autonomously carry out their responsibilities.

A true problem solver can look at a situation, find the cause of the problem (or causes, because there are often many issues at play), and then come up with a reasonable solution that effectively fixes the problem or at least remedies most of it.

The ability to solve problems is considered a soft skill , meaning that it’s more of a personality trait than a skill you’ve learned at school, on the job, or through technical training.

That being said, your proficiency with various hard skills will have a direct bearing on your ability to solve problems. For example, it doesn’t matter if you’re a great problem-solver; if you have no experience with astrophysics, you probably won’t be hired as a space station technician .

Types of Problem-Solving Skills

Problem-solving is considered a skill on its own, but it’s supported by many other skills that can help you be a better problem solver. These skills fall into a few different categories of problem-solving skills.

Problem recognition and analysis. The first step is to recognize that there is a problem and discover what it is or what the root cause of it is.

You can’t begin to solve a problem unless you’re aware of it. Sometimes you’ll see the problem yourself and other times you’ll be told about the problem. Both methods of discovery are very important, but they can require some different skills. The following can be an important part of the process:

Active listening

Data analysis

Historical analysis

Communication

Create possible solutions. You know what the problem is, and you might even know the why of it, but then what? Your next step is the come up with some solutions.

Most of the time, the first solution you come up with won’t be the right one. Don’t fall victim to knee-jerk reactions; try some of the following methods to give you solution options.

Brainstorming

Forecasting

Decision-making

Topic knowledge/understanding

Process flow

Evaluation of solution options. Now that you have a lot of solution options, it’s time to weed through them and start casting some aside. There might be some ridiculous ones, bad ones, and ones you know could never be implemented. Throw them away and focus on the potentially winning ideas.

This step is probably the one where a true, natural problem solver will shine. They intuitively can put together mental scenarios and try out solutions to see their plusses and minuses. If you’re still working on your skill set — try listing the pros and cons on a sheet of paper.

Prioritizing

Evaluating and weighing

Solution implementation. This is your “take action” step. Once you’ve decided which way to go, it’s time to head down that path and see if you were right. This step takes a lot of people and management skills to make it work for you.

Dependability

Teambuilding

Troubleshooting

Follow-Through

Believability

Trustworthiness

Project management

Evaluation of the solution. Was it a good solution? Did your plan work or did it fail miserably? Sometimes the evaluation step takes a lot of work and review to accurately determine effectiveness. The following skills might be essential for a thorough evaluation.

Customer service

Feedback responses

Flexibility

How to Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills

You now have a ton of skills in front of you. Some of them you have naturally and some — not so much. If you want to solve a problem, and you want to be known for doing that well and consistently, then it’s time to sharpen those skills.

Develop industry knowledge. Whether it’s broad-based industry knowledge, on-the-job training , or very specific knowledge about a small sector — knowing all that you can and feeling very confident in your knowledge goes a long way to learning how to solve problems.

Be a part of a solution. Step up and become involved in the problem-solving process. Don’t lead — but follow. Watch an expert solve the problem and, if you pay attention, you’ll learn how to solve a problem, too. Pay attention to the steps and the skills that a person uses.

Practice solving problems. Do some role-playing with a mentor , a professor , co-workers, other students — just start throwing problems out there and coming up with solutions and then detail how those solutions may play out.

Go a step further, find some real-world problems and create your solutions, then find out what they did to solve the problem in actuality.

Identify your weaknesses. If you could easily point out a few of your weaknesses in the list of skills above, then those are the areas you need to focus on improving. How you do it is incredibly varied, so find a method that works for you.

Solve some problems — for real. If the opportunity arises, step in and use your problem-solving skills. You’ll never really know how good (or bad) you are at it until you fail.

That’s right, failing will teach you so much more than succeeding will. You’ll learn how to go back and readdress the problem, find out where you went wrong, learn more from listening even better. Failure will be your best teacher ; it might not make you feel good, but it’ll make you a better problem-solver in the long run.

Example Answers to Problem-Solving Interview Questions

Once you’ve impressed a hiring manager with top-notch problem-solving skills on your resume and cover letter , you’ll need to continue selling yourself as a problem-solver in the job interview.

There are three main ways that employers can assess your problem-solving skills during an interview:

By asking questions that relate to your past experiences solving problems

Posing hypothetical problems for you to solve

By administering problem-solving tests and exercises

The third method varies wildly depending on what job you’re applying for, so we won’t attempt to cover all the possible problem-solving tests and exercises that may be a part of your application process.

Luckily, interview questions focused on problem-solving are pretty well-known, and most can be answered using the STAR method . STAR stands for situation, task, action, result, and it’s a great way to organize your answers to behavioral interview questions .

Let’s take a look at how to answer some common interview questions built to assess your problem-solving capabilities:

At my current job as an operations analyst at XYZ Inc., my boss set a quarterly goal to cut contractor spending by 25% while maintaining the same level of production and moving more processes in-house. It turned out that achieving this goal required hiring an additional 6 full-time employees, which got stalled due to the pandemic. I suggested that we widen our net and hire remote employees after our initial applicant pool had no solid candidates. I ran the analysis on overhead costs and found that if even 4 of the 6 employees were remote, we’d save 16% annually compared to the contractors’ rates. In the end, all 6 employees we hired were fully remote, and we cut costs by 26% while production rose by a modest amount.

I try to step back and gather research as my first step. For instance, I had a client who needed a graphic designer to work with Crello, which I had never seen before, let alone used. After getting the project details straight, I began meticulously studying the program the YouTube tutorials, and the quick course Crello provides. I also reached out to coworkers who had worked on projects for this same client in the past. Once I felt comfortable with the software, I started work immediately. It was a slower process because I had to be more methodical in my approach, but by putting in some extra hours, I turned in the project ahead of schedule. The client was thrilled with my work and was shocked to hear me joke afterward that it was my first time using Crello.

As a digital marketer , website traffic and conversion rates are my ultimate metrics. However, I also track less visible metrics that can illuminate the story behind the results. For instance, using Google Analytics, I found that 78% of our referral traffic was coming from one affiliate, but that these referrals were only accounting for 5% of our conversions. Another affiliate, who only accounted for about 10% of our referral traffic, was responsible for upwards of 30% of our conversions. I investigated further and found that the second, more effective affiliate was essentially qualifying our leads for us before sending them our way, which made it easier for us to close. I figured out exactly how they were sending us better customers, and reached out to the first, more prolific but less effective affiliate with my understanding of the results. They were able to change their pages that were referring us traffic, and our conversions from that source tripled in just a month. It showed me the importance of digging below the “big picture” metrics to see the mechanics of how revenue was really being generated through digital marketing.

How to Show Off Problem-Solving Skills on a Resume

You can bring up your problem-solving skills in your resume summary statement , in your work experience , and under your education section , if you’re a recent graduate. The key is to include items on your resume that speak direclty to your ability to solve problems and generate results.

If you can, quantify your problem-solving accomplishments on your your resume . Hiring managers and recruiters are always more impressed with results that include numbers because they provide much-needed context.

This sample resume for a Customer Service Representative will give you an idea of how you can work problem solving into your resume.

Example Resume and Cover Letter With Problem-Solving Skills

Michelle Beattle 111 Millennial Parkway Chicago, IL 60007 (555) 987-6543 [email protected] Professional Summary Qualified Customer Services Representative with 3 years in a high-pressure customer service environment. Professional, personable, and a true problem solver. Work History ABC Store — Customer Service Representative 01/2015 — 12/2017 Managed in-person and phone relations with customers coming in to pick up purchases, return purchased products, helped find and order items not on store shelves, and explained details and care of merchandise. Became a key player in the customer service department and was promoted to team lead. XYZ Store — Customer Service Representative/Night Manager 01/2018 — 03/2020, released due to Covid-19 layoffs Worked as the night manager of the customer service department and filled in daytime hours when needed. Streamlined a process of moving customers to the right department through an app to ease the burden on the phone lines and reduce customer wait time by 50%. Was working on additional wait time problems when the Covid-19 pandemic caused our stores to close permanently. Education Chicago Tech 2014-2016 Earned an Associate’s Degree in Principles of Customer Care Skills Strong customer service skills Excellent customer complaint resolution Stock record management Order fulfillment New product information Cash register skills and proficiency Leader in problem solving initiatives

You can see how the resume gives you a chance to point out your problem-solving skills and to show where you used them a few times. Your cover letter is your chance to introduce yourself and list a few things that make you stand out from the crowd.

Michelle Beattle 111 Millennial Parkway Chicago, IL 60007 (555) 987-6543 [email protected] Dear Mary McDonald, I am writing in response to your ad on Zippia for a Customer Service Representative . Thank you for taking the time to consider me for this position. Many people believe that a job in customer service is simply listening to people complain all day. I see the job as much more than that. It’s an opportunity to help people solve problems, make their experience with your company more enjoyable, and turn them into life-long advocates of your brand. Through my years of experience and my educational background at Chicago Tech, where I earned an Associate’s Degree in the Principles of Customer Care, I have learned that the customers are the lifeline of the business and without good customer service representatives, a business will falter. I see it as my mission to make each and every customer I come in contact with a fan. I have more than five years of experience in the Customer Services industry and had advanced my role at my last job to Night Manager. I am eager to again prove myself as a hard worker, a dedicated people person, and a problem solver that can be relied upon. I have built a professional reputation as an employee that respects all other employees and customers, as a manager who gets the job done and finds solutions when necessary, and a worker who dives in to learn all she can about the business. Most of my customers have been very satisfied with my resolution ideas and have returned to do business with us again. I believe my expertise would make me a great match for LMNO Store. I have enclosed my resume for your review, and I would appreciate having the opportunity to meet with you to further discuss my qualifications. Thank you again for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Michelle Beattle

More About Problem-Solving Skills

You’ve no doubt noticed that many of the skills listed in the problem-solving process are repeated. This is because having these abilities or talents is so important to the entire course of getting a problem solved.

In fact, they’re worthy of a little more attention. Many of them are similar, so we’ll pull them together and discuss how they’re important and how they work together.

Communication, active listening, and customer service skills. No matter where you are in the process of problem-solving, you need to be able to show that you’re listening and engaged and really hearing what the problem is or what a solution may be.

Obviously, the other part of this is being able to communicate effectively so people understand what you’re saying without confusion. Rolled into this are customer service skills , which really are all about listening and responding appropriately — it’s the ultimate in interpersonal communications.

Analysis (data and historical), research, and topic knowledge/understanding. This is how you intellectually grasp the issue and approach it. This can come from studying the topic and the process or it can come from knowledge you’ve gained after years in the business. But the best solutions come from people who thoroughly understand the problem.

Creativity, brainstorming, troubleshooting, and flexibility. All of you creative thinkers will like this area because it’s when your brain is at its best.

Coming up with ideas, collaborating with others, leaping over hurdles, and then being able to change courses immediately, if need be, are all essential. If you’re not creative by nature, then having a team of diverse thinkers can help you in this area.

Dependability, believability, trustworthiness, and follow-through. Think about it, these are all traits a person needs to have to make change happen and to make you comfortable taking that next step with them. Someone who is shifty and shady and never follows through, well, you’re simply not going to do what they ask, are you?

Leadership, teambuilding, decision-making, and project management. These are the skills that someone who is in charge is brimming with. These are the leaders you enjoy working for because you know they’re doing what they can to keep everything in working order. These skills can be learned but they’re often innate.

Prioritizing, prediction, forecasting, evaluating and weighing, and process flow. If you love flow charts, data analysis, prediction modeling, and all of that part of the equation, then you might have some great problem-solving abilities.

These are all great skills because they can help you weed out bad ideas, see flaws, and save massive amounts of time in trial and error.

Problem Solving Skills FAQs

What is a good example of problem-solving skills?

Good examples of porblem-solving skills include research, analysis, creativity, communciation, and decision-making. Each of these skills build off one another to contribute to the problem solving process. Research and analysis allow you to identify a problem.

Creativity and analysis help you consider different solutions. Meanwhile, communication and decision-making are key to working with others to solve a problem on a large scale.

What are 3 key attributes of a good problem solver?

3 key attributes of a good problem solver are persistence, intellegince, and empathy. Persistence is crucial to remain motivated to work through challenges. Inellegince is needed to make smart, informed choices. Empathy is crucial to maintain positive relationships with others as well as yourself.

What can I say instead of problem-solving skills?

Instead of saying problem-solving skills, you can say the following:

Critical thinker

Solutions-oriented

Engineering

Using different words is helpful, especially when writing your resume and cover letter.

What is problem-solving in the workplace?

Problem-solving in the workplace is the ability to work through any sort of challenge, conflict, or unexpected situation and still achieve business goals. Though it varies by profession, roblem-solving in the workplace is very important for almost any job, because probelms are inevitable. You need to have the appropriate level of problem-solving skills if you want to succeed in your career, whatever it may be.

Department of Labor – Problem Solving and Critical Thinking

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Kristin Kizer is an award-winning writer, television and documentary producer, and content specialist who has worked on a wide variety of written, broadcast, and electronic publications. A former writer/producer for The Discovery Channel, she is now a freelance writer and delighted to be sharing her talents and time with the wonderful Zippia audience.

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What Are Problem-Solving Skills? (Examples Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

Problem-solving skills are important not just for work. In the words of Karl Popper , “All life is problem-solving.”

What on earth does that mean? Simply that being alive means facing challenges. With problem-solving skills, you can navigate issues with greater ease, making hard times, well, less hard.

But what are problem-solving skills? How do you know if you have them or not? Why do they matter to your job search? And what should you do if you don’t feel yours are up to snuff? Luckily, we’re about to get into all of that.

If you’re curious about the world of problem-solving skills, here’s what you need to know.

What Are Problem-Solving Skills?

Before we dig into any examples, let’s focus first on an important question: what are problem-solving skills.

To answer that question, let’s start with the barebones basics. According to Merriam-Webster , problem-solving is “the process or act of finding a solution to a problem.” Why does that matter? Well, because it gives you insight into what problem-solving skills are.

Any skill that helps you find solutions to problems can qualify. And that means problem-solving skills aren’t just one capability, but a toolbox filled with soft skills and hard skills that come together during your time of need.

The ability to solve problems is relevant to any part of your life. Whether your writing a grocery list or dealing with a car that won’t start, you’re actually problem-solving.

The same is true at work, too. Most tasks actually involve a degree of problem-solving. Really? Really.

Think about it this way; when you’re given an assignment, you’re being asked, “Can you do this thing?” Doing that thing is the problem.

Then, you have to find a path that lets you accomplish what you need to do. That is problem-solving.

Yes, sometimes what you need to handle isn’t “challenging” in the difficulty sense. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t count.

Besides, some of what you need to do will legitimately be hard. Maybe you’re given a new responsibility, or something goes wrong during a project. When that happens, you’ll have to navigate unfamiliar territory, gather new information, and think outside of the box. That’s problem-solving, too.

That’s why hiring managers favor candidates with problem-solving skills. They make you more effective in your role, increasing the odds that you can find solutions whenever the need arises.

How Are Problem-Solving Skills Relevant to a Job Search?

Alright, you probably have a good idea of what problem-solving skills are. Now, it’s time to talk about why they matter to your job search.

We’ve already touched on one major point: hiring managers prefer candidates with strong problem-solving skills. That alone makes these capabilities a relevant part of the equation. If you don’t show the hiring manager you’ve got what it takes to excel, you may struggle to land a position.

But that isn’t the only reason these skills matter. Problem-solving skills can help you during the entire job search process. After all, what’s a job search but a problem – or a series of problems – that needs an answer.

You need a new job; that’s the core problem you’re solving. But every step is its own unique challenge. Finding an opening that matches your skills, creating a resume that resonates with the hiring manager, nailing the interview, and negotiating a salary … those are all smaller problems that are part of the bigger one.

So, problem-solving skills really are at the core of the job search experience. By having strong capabilities in this area, you may find a new position faster than you’d expect.

Okay, you may be thinking, “If hiring managers prefer candidates with problem-solving skills, which ones are they after? Are certain problem-solving capabilities more important today? Is there something I should be going out of my way to showcase?”

While any related skills are worth highlighting, some may get you further than others. Analysis, research, creativity, collaboration , organization, and decision-making are all biggies. With those skills, you can work through the entire problem-solving process, making them worthwhile additions to your resume.

But that doesn’t mean you have to focus there solely. Don’t shy away from showcasing everything you bring to the table. That way, if a particular hiring manager is looking for a certain capability, you’re more likely to tap on what they’re after.

How to Highlight Problem-Solving Skills for Job Search

At this point, it’s ridiculously clear that problem-solving skills are valuable in the eyes of hiring managers. So, how do you show them that you’ve got all of the capabilities they are after? By using the right approach.

When you’re writing your resume or cover letter , your best bet is to highlight achievements that let you put your problem-solving skills to work. That way, you can “show” the hiring manager you have what it takes.

Showing is always better than telling. Anyone can write down, “I have awesome problem-solving skills.” The thing is, that doesn’t really prove that you do. With a great example, you offer up some context, and that makes a difference.

How do you decide on which skills to highlight on your resume or cover letter? By having a great strategy. With the Tailoring Method , it’s all about relevancy. The technique helps you identify skills that matter to that particular hiring manager, allowing you to speak directly to their needs.

Plus, you can use the Tailoring Method when you answer job interview questions . With that approach, you’re making sure those responses are on-point, too.

But when do you talk about your problem-solving capabilities during an interview? Well, there’s a good chance you’ll get asked problem-solving interview questions during your meeting. Take a look at those to see the kinds of questions that are perfect for mentioning these skills.

However, you don’t have to stop there. If you’re asked about your greatest achievement or your strengths, those could be opportunities, too. Nearly any open-ended question could be the right time to discuss those skills, so keep that in mind as you practice for your interview.

How to Develop Problem-Solving Skills If You Don’t Have Them

Developing problem-solving skills may seem a bit tricky on the surface, especially if you think you don’t have them. The thing is, it doesn’t actually have to be hard. You simply need to use the right strategy.

First, understand that you probably do have problem-solving skills; you simply may not have realized it. After all, life is full of challenges that you have to tackle, so there’s a good chance you’ve developed some abilities along the way.

Now, let’s reframe the question and focus on how to improve your problem-solving skills. Here’s how to go about it.

Understand the Problem-Solving Process

In many cases, problem-solving is all about the process. You:

• Identify the problem
• Analyze the key elements
• Look for potential solutions
• Examine the options for viability and risk
• Decide on an approach
• Review the outcome for lessons

By understanding the core process, you can apply it more effectively. That way, when you encounter an issue, you’ll know how to approach it, increasing the odds you’ll handle the situation effectively.

Try Puzzles and Games

Any activity that lets you take the steps listed above could help you hone your problem-solving skills. For example, brainteasers, puzzles, and logic-based games can be great places to start.

Whether it’s something as straightforward – but nonetheless challenging – as Sudoku or a Rubik’s Cube, or something as complex as Settlers of Catan, it puts your problem-solving skills to work. Plus, if you enjoy the activity, it makes skill-building fun, making it a win-win.

Look for Daily Opportunities

If you’re looking for a practical approach, you’re in luck. You can also look at the various challenges you face during the day and think about how to overcome them.

For example, if you always experience a mid-day energy slump that hurts your productivity, take a deep dive into that problem. Define what’s happening, think about why it occurs, consider various solutions, pick one to try, and analyze the results.

By using the problem-solving approach more often in your life, you’ll develop those skills further and make using these capabilities a habit. Plus, you may find ways to improve your day-to-day living, which is a nice bonus.

Volunteer for “Stretch” Projects

If you’re currently employed, volunteering for projects that push you slightly outside of your comfort zone can help you develop problem-solving skills, too. You’ll encounter the unknown and have to think outside of the box, both of which can boost critical problem-solving-related skills.

Plus, you may gain other capabilities along the way, like experience with new technologies or tools. That makes the project an even bigger career booster, which is pretty awesome.

List of Problem-Solving Skills

Alright, we’ve taken a pretty deep dive into what problem-solving skills are. Now, it’s time for some problem-solving skills examples.

As we mentioned above, there are a ton of capabilities and traits that can support better problem-solving. By understanding what they are, you can showcase the right abilities during your job search.

So, without further ado, here is a quick list of problem-solving skill examples:

• Collaboration
• Organization
• Decision-Making
• Troubleshooting
• Self-Reliance
• Self-Motivation
• Communication
• Attention to Detail
• Brainstorming
• Forecasting
• Active Listening
• Accountability
• Open-Mindedness
• Critical Thinking
• Flexibility

Do you have to showcase all of those skills during your job search individually? No, not necessarily. Instead, you want to highlight a range of capabilities based on what the hiring manager is after. If you’re using the Tailoring Method, you’ll know which ones need to make their way into your resume, cover letter, and interview answers.

Now, are there other skills that support problem-solving? Yes, there certainly can be.

Essentially any skill that helps you go from the problem to the solution can, in its own right, be a problem-solving skill.

All of the skills above can be part of the equation. But, if you have another capability that helps you flourish when you encounter an obstacle, it can count, too.

Reflect on your past experience and consider how you’ve navigated challenges in the past. If a particular skill helped you do that, then it’s worth highlighting during a job search.

If you would like to find out more about skills to put on a resume , we’ve taken a close look at the topic before. Along with problem-solving skills, we dig into a variety of other areas, helping you choose what to highlight so that you can increase your odds of landing your perfect job.

Putting It All Together

Ultimately, problem-solving skills are essential for professionals in any kind of field. By honing your capabilities and showcasing them during your job search, you can become a stronger candidate and employee. In the end, that’s all good stuff, making it easier for you to keep your career on track today, tomorrow, and well into the future.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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What Are Problem-Solving Skills?

Definition & Examples of Problem-Solving Skills

• Problem-solving skills help you determine why an issue is happening and how to resolve that issue.

Problem-solving is considered a  soft skill  (a personal strength) rather than a hard skill that's learned through education or training. You can improve your problem-solving skills by familiarizing yourself with common issues in your industry and learning from more experienced employees. Learn more about problem-solving skills and how they work.

Problem-solving skills help you solve issues quickly and effectively. It's one of the  key skills that employers  seek in job applicants, as employees with these skills tend to be self-reliant. Problem-solving skills require quickly identifying the underlying issue and implementing a solution.

How Problem-Solving Skills Work

Problem-solving starts with identifying the issue. For example, a teacher might need to figure out how to improve student performance on a writing proficiency test. To do that, the teacher will review the writing tests looking for areas of improvement. They might see that students can construct simple sentences, but they're struggling with writing paragraphs and organizing those paragraphs into an essay.

To solve the problem, the teacher would work with students on how and when to write compound sentences, how to write paragraphs, and ways to organize an essay.

Theresa Chiechi / The Balance

Problem-Solving Steps

There are five steps typically used in problem-solving.

1. Analyze Contributing Factors

To solve a problem, you must find out what caused it. This requires you to gather and evaluate data, isolate possible contributing circumstances, and pinpoint what needs to be addressed for a resolution.

To do this, you'll use skills like :

• Data gathering
• Data analysis
• Fact-finding
• Historical analysis

2. Generate Interventions

Once you’ve determined the cause, brainstorm possible solutions. Sometimes this involves teamwork since two (or more) minds are often better than one. A single strategy is rarely the obvious route to solving a complex problem; devising a set of alternatives helps you cover your bases and reduces your risk of exposure should the first strategy you implement fail.

This involves skills like :

• Brainstorming
• Creative thinking
• Forecasting
• Project design
• Project planning

3. Evaluate Solutions

Depending on the nature of the problem and your chain of command, evaluating the best solutions may be performed by assigned teams or team leads, or forwarded to corporate decision-makers. Whoever makes the decision must evaluate potential costs, required resources, and possible barriers to successful solution implementation.

This requires several skills, including:

• Corroboration
• Test development
• Prioritizing

4. Implement a Plan

Once a course of action has been decided, it must be implemented along with benchmarks that can quickly and accurately determine whether it’s working. Plan implementation also involves letting personnel know about changes in standard operating procedures.

This requires skills like:

• Project management
• Project implementation
• Collaboration
• Time management
• Benchmark development

5. Assess the Solution's Effectiveness

Once a solution is implemented, the best problem-solvers have systems in place to evaluate if and how quickly it's working. This way, they know as soon as possible whether the issue has been resolved or whether they’ll have to change their response to the problem mid-stream.

This requires:

• Communication
• Customer feedback
• Follow-through
• Troubleshooting

Examples of Problem-Solving Skills

Here's an example of showing your problem-solving skills in a cover letter.

When I was first hired as a paralegal, I inherited a backlog of 25 sets of medical records that needed to be summarized, each of which was hundreds of pages long. At the same time, I had to help prepare for three major cases, and there weren’t enough hours in the day. After I explained the problem to my supervisor, she agreed to pay me to come in on Saturday mornings to focus on the backlog. I was able to eliminate the backlog in a month.

Here's another example of how to show your problem-solving skills in a cover letter:

When I joined the team at Great Graphics as Artistic Director, the designers had become uninspired because of a former director who attempted to micro-manage every step in the design process. I used weekly round-table discussions to solicit creative input and ensured that each designer was given full autonomy to do their best work. I also introduced monthly team-based competitions that helped build morale, spark new ideas, and improve collaboration.

Highlighting Problem-Solving Skills

• Since this is a skill that's important to most employers, put them front and center on your resume, cover letter, and in interviews.

If you're not sure what to include, look to previous roles—whether in academic, work, or volunteer settings—for examples of challenges you met and problems you solved. Highlight relevant examples in your  cover letter and use bullet points in your resume to show how you solved a problem.

During interviews, be ready to describe situations you've encountered in previous roles, the processes you followed to address problems, the skills you applied, and the results of your actions. Potential employers are eager to hear a  coherent narrative of the ways you've used problem-solving skills .

Interviewers may pose hypothetical problems for you to solve. Base your answers on the five steps and refer to similar problems you've resolved, if possible. Here are tips for answering problem-solving interview questions , with examples of the best answers.

Key Takeaways

• It's one of the key skills that employers seek in job applicants.
• Problem-solving starts with identifying the issue, coming up with solutions, implementing those solutions, and evaluating their effectiveness. 

Related Articles

• Advice & Tips

Mastering Problem-Solving Skills: Definitions and Examples

March 15, 2024

Introduction

In today's competitive job market, both job seekers and employers face numerous challenges. Job seekers often find themselves struggling to stand out among a sea of qualified candidates, while employers seek individuals who not only possess the necessary technical skills but also demonstrate essential soft skills like problem-solving abilities.

Problem-solving skills are highly valued in the professional world as they enable individuals to navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and drive innovation within organizations. In this article, we will explore the definitions of problem-solving skills, their importance in the job market, how employers evaluate these skills, and how individuals can develop and showcase their problem-solving abilities to enhance their career prospects.

Understanding Problem-Solving Skills

Problem-solving skills are crucial abilities that enable individuals to identify issues, analyze challenges, develop solutions, and implement action plans to overcome obstacles effectively. These skills go beyond just finding a quick fix but involve a systematic approach to addressing complex problems in various situations.

What Are Problem-Solving Skills?

Problem-solving skills encompass a range of capabilities that allow individuals to tackle both simple and complex issues encountered in the workplace and daily life. These skills involve critical thinking, creativity, decision-making, adaptability, communication, and persistence. Individuals with strong problem-solving skills can assess situations, gather relevant information, evaluate options, and choose the most suitable course of action to achieve desired outcomes.

• Analytical Thinking
• Creativity and Innovation
• Decision-Making
• Adaptability
• Communication
• Resilience and Persistence

Developing effective problem-solving skills requires practice, continuous learning, and a growth mindset to enhance one's ability to navigate challenges successfully.

As Dr. Samantha Hayes, a renowned psychologist at Mindful Solutions USA, explains, "Problem-solving skills are fundamental in both personal and professional contexts. It's about approaching problems with a positive attitude, seeking solutions, and learning from each challenge we encounter."

Statistics show that 75% of employers consider problem-solving skills to be one of the top qualities they look for in potential candidates.

With the dynamic nature of the job market and the increasing complexity of work environments, individuals who possess strong problem-solving skills are better equipped to thrive in diverse roles and industries.

Importance of Problem-Solving Skills in the Job Market

In today's dynamic and competitive job market, possessing strong problem-solving skills is crucial for both job seekers and employers. These skills are highly valued across industries as they demonstrate an individual's ability to navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and drive innovative solutions.

The Value of Problem-Solving Skills for Job Seekers:

For job seekers, showcasing proficient problem-solving abilities can significantly enhance their employability. Employers seek candidates who can adapt to new situations, think critically, and resolve complex issues efficiently. Candidates with strong problem-solving skills are seen as resourceful, proactive, and capable of handling diverse tasks effectively.

• Critical Thinking
• Innovative Thinking
• Resourcefulness

The Impact of Problem-Solving Skills on Employers:

Employers understand that effective problem solvers contribute to a more productive and efficient workplace. Individuals who can identify problems, analyze root causes, and implement viable solutions add substantial value to organizations. In a rapidly evolving business landscape, employees with robust problem-solving skills are invaluable assets that drive growth and innovation.

• Increased Productivity
• Enhanced Decision-Making
• Promotion of Innovation
• Strengthened Team Dynamics

According to John Smith, CEO of Talent Solutions USA, "Problem-solving skills are integral to our company's success. We actively seek candidates who not only possess technical expertise but also demonstrate a strategic approach to overcoming challenges."

Research shows that 72% of employers rate critical thinking and problem-solving as the top skills they look for when hiring new talent (Source: World Economic Forum). This emphasizes the growing significance of problem-solving skills in today's job market.

By honing their problem-solving abilities, job seekers can differentiate themselves from competitors and attract prospective employers seeking individuals who can drive innovation and overcome obstacles.

How Employers Evaluate Problem-Solving Skills

Problem-solving skills are highly sought after by employers across all industries. In today's fast-paced and dynamic work environment, the ability to think critically, identify issues, and develop effective solutions is invaluable. Employers evaluate problem-solving skills during the hiring process to ensure that candidates can handle challenges and contribute to the organization's success.

Assessing Problem-Solving Skills in Job Candidates

Employers assess problem-solving skills in job candidates through various methods, including:

• Behavioral interview questions that require candidates to provide examples of how they have resolved difficult situations in the past.
• Problem-solving exercises or case studies during the interview process to evaluate candidates' analytical thinking and decision-making abilities.
• Skills assessments or tests that measure candidates' problem-solving capabilities in real or simulated work scenarios.

Qualities Employers Look for in Problem-Solving Skills

Employers look for specific qualities when evaluating candidates' problem-solving skills, such as:

• Ability to analyze complex problems and break them down into manageable components.
• Creativity and innovation in developing unique solutions to challenges.
• Adaptability and flexibility to adjust problem-solving approaches based on new information.
• Collaboration and communication skills to work effectively with others in finding solutions.

Importance of Problem-Solving Skills in the Hiring Process

Problem-solving skills play a crucial role in the hiring process as they indicate a candidate's potential to navigate obstacles, overcome hurdles, and drive business success. Employers recognize that employees with strong problem-solving abilities can enhance productivity, foster innovation, and contribute to a positive work culture.

"In today's competitive job market, employers are looking for candidates who not only have the necessary qualifications but also possess exceptional problem-solving skills. The ability to think critically and solve complex issues sets candidates apart and demonstrates their value to prospective employers." - Jennifer Smith, Founder & CEO of Talent Solutions Inc.

Developing and Demonstrating Problem-Solving Skills

Problem-solving skills are highly valued in the workplace as they demonstrate an individual's ability to approach complex issues effectively. Developing and showcasing these skills is crucial for both job seekers and employees looking to advance their careers.

Building Problem-Solving Skills:

One effective way to enhance problem-solving skills is through continuous learning and practice. Engaging in activities that require critical thinking and decision-making can help individuals become more adept at solving problems efficiently. Additionally, seeking feedback from peers and mentors can provide valuable insights into one's problem-solving approach and areas for improvement.

• Engage in puzzles, brain teasers, and strategy games to keep your mind sharp.
• Participate in group projects that involve solving real-world problems to gain practical experience.
• Attend workshops or training sessions focused on enhancing problem-solving abilities.

Demonstrating Problem-Solving Skills:

When applying for jobs or aiming for career progression, it's essential to effectively demonstrate your problem-solving skills to potential employers. Utilizing specific examples from past experiences can showcase your ability to analyze issues, develop solutions, and implement them successfully.

• Highlight a challenging situation you faced in a previous role, the steps you took to address it, and the positive outcomes achieved.
• Showcase your adaptability by discussing how you modified your approach when initial solutions were not successful.
• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) when providing examples of your problem-solving abilities during interviews or in resumes.

Employers often use behavioral interview questions to evaluate candidates' problem-solving skills. Being prepared with concrete examples that demonstrate your competence can set you apart from other applicants.

Continuously honing your problem-solving skills and effectively showcasing them can open doors to new opportunities and career growth. It is not only about having the skills but also about being able to articulate and demonstrate them confidently.

Examples of Problem-Solving Skills in Various Industries

Problem-solving skills are highly valued across industries as professionals encounter challenges daily that require innovative solutions. Let's explore how problem-solving manifests in different sectors:

1. Healthcare

In the healthcare industry, professionals often face complex situations that demand quick thinking and effective problem-solving skills. For example, a nurse might need to troubleshoot medical equipment issues to ensure patient care is not compromised. Doctors also rely on problem-solving abilities to diagnose illnesses accurately and develop appropriate treatment plans.

2. Technology

Technology professionals encounter diverse problems, such as fixing software bugs, improving system efficiency, or developing new solutions. Software developers, for instance, use problem-solving skills to identify and resolve coding issues, ensuring that programs function smoothly. IT specialists may also troubleshoot network problems to maintain seamless operations within an organization.

3. Business and Management

In the business world, problem-solving is essential for effective decision-making and strategic planning. Managers often deal with challenges related to resource allocation, employee conflicts, or market fluctuations. Strong problem-solving skills enable them to navigate these complexities successfully, leading their teams towards achieving organizational goals.

4. Engineering

Engineers play a crucial role in designing and creating solutions for various industries, from aerospace to civil engineering. Problem-solving is at the core of their work, whether it involves optimizing structural designs, troubleshooting machinery issues, or addressing environmental concerns. Their ability to innovate and overcome technical challenges drives progress and innovation.

5. Education

Educators constantly face unique challenges in the classroom, requiring creative problem-solving strategies to meet diverse student needs. Teachers must adapt lesson plans to cater to different learning styles, manage classroom disruptions effectively, and address individual academic struggles. Problem-solving skills empower educators to deliver quality education and support student growth.

6. Marketing and Sales

In the competitive world of marketing and sales, professionals encounter obstacles such as understanding consumer behavior, launching successful campaigns, and overcoming market saturation. Marketers and sales representatives leverage problem-solving skills to analyze data, identify trends, and devise innovative strategies to attract customers and drive revenue growth.

These examples demonstrate the versatility and significance of problem-solving skills across various industries, highlighting their indispensable role in professional success and organizational growth.

Enhancing Problem-Solving Skills Through Training and Practice

Problem-solving skills are not innate abilities but can be developed and honed through training and practice. Employers highly value candidates who continuously work on enhancing their problem-solving capabilities. Here are some effective strategies for improving problem-solving skills:

Continuous Learning

One of the most effective ways to enhance problem-solving skills is through continuous learning. This can involve taking online courses, attending workshops, or pursuing further education in a relevant field. By expanding your knowledge base, you will be better equipped to approach problems from different angles and come up with innovative solutions.

Practice Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is a key component of effective problem-solving. Engaging in activities that require critical analysis, such as puzzles, brain teasers, or strategy games, can help sharpen your analytical skills. Regularly challenging yourself to think outside the box will improve your ability to tackle complex issues in the workplace.

Seek Feedback

Feedback is crucial for growth and improvement. When faced with a problem, don't hesitate to seek feedback from colleagues, mentors, or supervisors. Constructive criticism can provide valuable insights and different perspectives that may lead to more effective problem-solving strategies.

Collaborate with Others

Collaboration is a powerful tool for developing problem-solving skills. Working with diverse teams allows you to leverage the collective knowledge and expertise of group members. By sharing ideas, brainstorming solutions, and engaging in open discussions, you can enhance your own problem-solving abilities while learning from others.

• Participate in group projects to experience different problem-solving approaches.
• Encourage open communication and idea-sharing within teams.
• Learn from the problem-solving techniques used by others.

Simulate Real-Life Scenarios

Simulating real-life scenarios can help you prepare for unpredictable challenges in the workplace. Role-playing exercises, case studies, and simulations can mimic actual work situations and allow you to practice applying problem-solving strategies in a controlled environment.

"Training and practice are essential for enhancing problem-solving skills. By continuously learning, practicing critical thinking, seeking feedback, collaborating with others, and simulating real-life scenarios, individuals can develop into adept problem solvers." - Dr. Jennifer Collins, Cognitive Solutions Inc.

The Role of Problem-Solving Skills in Career Advancement

Problem-solving skills are not only crucial for landing a job but also play a significant role in career advancement. Employers value employees who can tackle challenges head-on, think critically, and come up with innovative solutions. As individuals progress in their careers, the complexity of problems they encounter tends to increase, making strong problem-solving abilities essential for long-term success.

Why Problem-Solving Skills Matter in Career Advancement

Professionals who excel at problem-solving are better equipped to handle unexpected issues, meet goals effectively, and drive growth within their organizations. These skills demonstrate an individual's ability to adapt to new situations, make informed decisions, and overcome obstacles, all of which are highly valued in today's competitive job market.

According to Dr. Jennifer Stevens , a renowned psychologist specializing in workplace dynamics at Career Success Inc. , "Employees who continuously hone their problem-solving skills are more likely to stand out among their peers and advance in their careers. Companies are seeking individuals who can navigate complexities, identify opportunities, and deliver results."

Advancing Through Effective Problem Solving

Individuals looking to climb the career ladder should focus on developing their problem-solving abilities. This can be achieved through further education, training programs, mentorship, and on-the-job experience. By actively seeking out challenges, proposing innovative solutions, and collaborating with colleagues, professionals can showcase their problem-solving skills and position themselves for career growth.

In a survey conducted by John Smith , a senior HR consultant at Global Talent Solutions , it was found that 89% of executives believe that strong problem-solving skills are critical for career advancement. Employers are increasingly looking for candidates who not only have technical expertise but also demonstrate the ability to think critically, adapt to change, and drive organizational success through effective problem solving.

The Impact on Career Trajectory

Individuals who consistently demonstrate strong problem-solving skills are more likely to be considered for leadership positions and exciting career opportunities. As they gain a reputation for being reliable, creative problem solvers, doors to advancement and increased responsibilities tend to open up. Moreover, professionals with excellent problem-solving abilities are better equipped to lead teams, manage projects, and drive innovation within their organizations.

Dr. Emily Rodriguez , a business strategist at Strategic Leadership Consultants , emphasizes, "Problem-solving skills serve as a cornerstone for career development. Those who can approach challenges with confidence, communicate solutions effectively, and drive implementation are well-positioned for success in today's dynamic work environment."

Expert Insights on Nurturing Problem-Solving Skills

Amy johnson, ceo of solver solutions inc..

"In today's competitive job market, problem-solving skills are more crucial than ever. Employers seek candidates who can not only identify issues but also offer innovative solutions. To nurture these skills, individuals must continuously challenge themselves and think outside the box."

Dr. Michael Chang, Psychologist and Career Coach

"Problem-solving skills go beyond resolving issues; they involve critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Job seekers should engage in activities that stimulate their minds, such as puzzles or brainstorming sessions, to enhance these competencies."

Anna Rodriguez, HR Director at Strategic Staffing Solutions

"Employers value candidates who can approach problems analytically and methodically. To foster problem-solving abilities, individuals should practice active listening, seek feedback, and collaborate with others to gain diverse perspectives."

Developing strong problem-solving skills requires commitment and ongoing effort. By incorporating expert advice and dedicating time to honing these competencies, job seekers can elevate their profiles in the competitive job market.

Problem-solving skills are crucial in today's competitive job market, helping both job seekers and employers navigate challenges effectively. By understanding the essence of problem-solving skills, their importance, and how they are evaluated by employers, individuals can enhance and demonstrate these skills to stand out in their respective industries.

By developing robust problem-solving abilities, employees become valuable assets to organizations, driving innovation, efficiency, and growth. Employers seek candidates who not only possess technical expertise but also have the capability to tackle complex issues creatively and collaboratively.

Through training, practice, and real-world application, individuals can hone their problem-solving skills across different sectors, including finance, technology, healthcare, and beyond. By learning from industry experts and leveraging diverse experiences, professionals can broaden their problem-solving acumen and adaptability.

As career advancement increasingly relies on an individual's capacity to address unique challenges and drive solutions, problem-solving skills emerge as a key differentiator in achieving professional success. Continuous learning, feedback integration, and staying abreast of industry trends are critical components in nurturing and showcasing one's problem-solving prowess.

Experts emphasize the significance of cultivating problem-solving skills not only for immediate job applications but also for long-term career sustainability. By fostering a mindset centered on proactive problem-solving, individuals can position themselves as resilient and resourceful professionals in a dynamic job market.

Problem Solving Skills

What are problem solving skills.

• The ability to identify problems, brainstorm strategies, utilize strategies, and evaluate how effective they are.
• Problem solving is more than just being given a solution – it is the journey to finding a solution that works for you
• We use RISE as a process to teach problem solving skills

Why are problem solving skills important for growth and development?

• Adaptability: Life is full of challenges and changes. Problem-solving skills allow individuals to adapt to these changes, find solutions to challenges, and turn obstacles into opportunities. This adaptability is key to personal and professional growth.
• Independence: These skills foster independence. When individuals can solve problems on their own, they become more self-reliant and less dependent on others. This independence can boost confidence and self-esteem, contributing to personal development.
• Critical Thinking: Problem solving involves critical thinking, which is a valuable skill in many areas of life, from personal decisions to professional tasks.
• Creativity: Problem-solving often requires creative thinking, especially when conventional solutions are not effective. This creativity can lead to innovative ideas and approaches, contributing to personal and professional growth.
• Resilience: When individuals can effectively solve problems, they are better equipped to cope with adversity and bounce back from setbacks. Resilience is a key aspect of personal growth and mental health.
• Career Advancement: Employees who can effectively solve problems are often seen as reliable and competent, making them prime candidates for career advancement.
• Life Skills: From managing personal finances to navigating social relationships, problem-solving skills enable individuals to deal with a wide range of everyday situations effectively.

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