What Problem Are You Trying To Solve?
You are at a meeting that has no published agenda, few know why they were invited, and 45 minutes into the meeting you are thinking…why am I here? There is a lot of discussion, no notes, and little direction. Great way to pass the time, if you’re so inclined. I bet most of us have better things to do. As leaders, our calendars are packed with meetings that are billed as ‘strategic’ or ‘action-oriented’. Focus on the outcomes when you’re at that meeting. If the presenter/facilitator doesn’t explicitly state the outcome for the meeting, you may want to ask up front.
Everything Is A Problem
Solving problems, as in definition #2 below. Not as in an issue, challenge or something is wrong. As a question for engaging in action that provides discussion and solution.
problem – [prob-luh m]
1. any question or matter involving doubt, uncertainty, or difficulty.
2. a question proposed for solution or discussion.
3. Mathematics. a statement requiring a solution, usually by means of a mathematical operation or geometric construction.
Leaders Are Paid To Solve Problems
Complex problems. Easy problems. Political problems. Solved. We need to lead our teams, our colleagues, our own bosses, towards solution-based actions. The rest is conversation. If you are lucky enough to work in an organization that has a robust performance management process, you’ll find that solving problems is what you should be doing all the time.
Stumble it!
Joe Raasch :: Nov.14.2009 :: Change Management, Leadership, Organizational Development, Performance Management :: No Comments »