Monthly Archives: August 2010

Problem Solving And Deciding On A Solution

Working in a team can be quite challenging. Deciding what to agree on for an outcome or goal is important for the success of a project. Some key actions to evaluate solutions and gain consensus on the decision to be implemented are:

  1. Describe the decision and how it will be made.
  2. Jointly establish decision-making guidelines.
  3. Jointly evaluate options against the guidelines.
  4. Gain agreement on the best alternative.

Keep it cool, civilized, and concise. Keep discussions on topic and on time. Most of all, communicate well!

How To Listen

Listening is an obvious skill everyone must have.  In business, it’s especially critical.  Companies must listen to their customers.  Supervisors must listen to their subordinates.  Peers must listen to each other.  The key is removing the emotions and focus on the following actions:

  1. Evaluate the need to listen.
  2. Manage internal and external noises.
  3. Demonstrate a curious and open mind.
  4. Manage the flow of conversation.

Effective listening is critical to sorting through and keeping up with the information needed to get results.