Problem Solving When Faced With A Problem What Do You Do ✓ Solved

Problem Solving When Faced With A Problem What Do You Do To Sol

Problem Solving When faced with a problem, what do you do to solve it? This assignment asks you to apply a six-step to problem solving process to a specific problem scenario. You will write a paper that presents a synthesis of your ideas about solving the problem using this systematic approach. Scenario: You are a sales representative for a company that encourages staff to log time in the field and away from the office. You are expected to begin and end your day at the office.

You notice that each day when you arrive and return another co-worker is already there, and you wonder whether this person spends most of his / her time at the office. At your weekly sales meeting, you are informed of your co-workers' outstanding sales performance. You suspect that this co-worker is spending more time flattering the boss instead of working leads in the field, and as a result is getting the best client referrals. Your own sales numbers have steadily decreased since this other sales representative was hired. Write a four to five (4-5) page paper in which you: 1.

Define the problem in the scenario 2. Analyze the problem in the scenario. 3. Generate options for solving the problem in the scenario. 4.

Evaluate the options for solving the problem. 5. Decide on the best option for solving the problem. 6. Explain how you will implement the decision made and reflect on whether this option was the most effective.

The paper should follow guidelines for clear and organized writing: · Include an introductory paragraph and concluding paragraph. · Address main ideas in body paragraphs with a topic sentence and supporting sentences. · Adhere to standard rules of English grammar, punctuation, mechanics, and spelling. Your assignment must follow these formatting requirements: Therefore, since this assignment requires you to write at least 4-5 pages, you should include at least 4-5 references . The specific course learning outcomes associated with this assignment are: · Recognize the hindrances to the decision-making process to apply problem-solving skills to a variety of situations. · Create written work utilizing the concepts of critical thinking. · Use technology and information resources to research issues in critical thinking skills and informal logic.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Effective problem-solving is a fundamental skill in professional environments, especially when dealing with workplace dynamics that influence individual performance. In this paper, I will apply a systematic six-step problem-solving process to a workplace scenario involving a coworker whose behavior seems to be influencing sales outcomes and team performance. The goal is to analyze the problem comprehensively, explore possible solutions, evaluate their feasibility, and implement the most effective strategy for resolution.

Defining the Problem

The core issue in this scenario revolves around a perceived discrepancy in work behavior and performance between a coworker and myself. The coworker consistently arrives early and leaves late, suggesting a significant presence at the office. Simultaneously, they outperform others in sales performance, which leads to suspicions of favoritism or unprofessional conduct such as flattering management, rather than focusing solely on sales activities. This situation results in decreased sales for myself and potentially shifts the team's overall productivity, raising concerns about fairness, motivation, and the integrity of sales practices.

Analyzing the Problem

Analyzing this problem requires understanding multiple facets, including workplace ethics, team dynamics, and individual motivations. The coworker’s behavior might stem from genuine commitment, strategic networking, or questionable favoritism. Their high sales figures could be a result of effective sales techniques or inappropriate tactics such as leveraging personal relationships with management. Conversely, my declining sales may indicate a lack of resources, motivation, or potential bias in evaluating performance. Recognizing these factors is essential for framing appropriate solutions and understanding the implications of each potential action.

Generating Options

Several strategies can be considered to address this issue:

1. Direct Confrontation: Discuss concerns with the coworker to clarify their work habits and performance methods.

2. Supervisor Engagement: Report suspicions and issues to a supervisor or manager to seek intervention.

3. Self-Improvement Focus: Invest in enhancing personal sales skills and adjusting work strategies to counteract perceived unfair advantages.

4. Team-Based Approach: Foster a team environment where sales strategies and behaviors are standardized and monitored.

5. Observation and Data Collection: Gather more information on coworker activities and sales behaviors before taking action.

Evaluating Options

Assessing the feasibility and potential outcomes of each option is crucial. Direct confrontation might strain workplace relationships but could lead to transparency. Reporting suspicions to a supervisor may trigger formal investigations but risks damaging team cohesion if not handled delicately. Focusing on personal development offers a constructive approach that avoids conflict but may not address underlying issues. Implementing team-based standards could improve fairness but requires management support. Collecting more data enables informed decisions but delays action and may be resource-intensive.

Deciding on the Best Option

Considering the scenario’s complexities, the most appropriate course of action is to gather further data while simultaneously engaging with management subtly. This combined approach allows for informed decision-making and ensures that any subsequent actions are based on clear evidence. Communicating concerns to supervisors with factual data can foster transparency and fairness without immediate confrontations, aligning with ethical standards and organizational policies.

Implementation and Reflection

To implement this solution, I will systematically document my observations over a predetermined period, focusing on work hours, activities, and sales performance. I will schedule a confidential meeting with my supervisor to present the data and express concerns diplomatically. This approach ensures that the issue is addressed professionally and ethically, avoiding unnecessary conflicts. Post-implementation, I will evaluate whether this method improved my sales performance, team transparency, and workplace morale. If the supervisor’s intervention clarifies the coworker’s behavior and leads to fair practices, I will consider it an effective resolution. Otherwise, I might revisit other options such as direct discussion or team interventions.

Conclusion

Effective problem-solving in the workplace requires applying systematic strategies rooted in critical thinking and ethical considerations. By carefully defining, analyzing, exploring options, and evaluating solutions, employees can address issues constructively, fostering a healthier work environment. The chosen approach should always align with organizational policies and promote fairness, transparency, and professional integrity.

References

• Coughlan, P., & Wilson, D. (2011). Effective Problem Solving. Oxford University Press.
• Jonassen, D. H. (2014). Learning to Solve Problems: A Handbook for Developing Critical Thinking Skills. Routledge.
• Kolb, D. A. (2014). Experiential Learning: Experience as the Source of Learning and Development. Pearson.
• Paul, R., & Elder, L. (2014). Critical Thinking: Tools for Taking Charge of Your Learning and Your Life. Pearson.
• Schön, D. A. (2017). The Reflective Practitioner: How Professionals Think in Action. Routledge.
• Senge, P. (2006). The Fifth Discipline: The Art & Practice of The Learning Organization. Doubleday.
• Thompson, L. (2016). Making the Right Decision. Harvard Business Review Press.
• Vesper, K. H. (2012). Problem-Solving Skills. Nova Science Publishers.
• Whetten, D. A., & Cameron, K. S. (2016). Developing Management Skills. Pearson.
• Zhang, J., & Wang, Y. (2019). Critical thinking and decision-making skills development. International Journal of Educational Research, 98, 139-149.