Problems and workplaces go hand-in-hand. No matter the size of the company, the scope of the dilemma, problems are as inescapable in the workplace as well, work. While problems cropping up may be beyond your control, problem-solving is firmly within your grasp.

Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity may be difficult to fully comprehend, but his problem-solving advice is easy to follow. “We can’t solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them.” Now that’s genius!

So switch off problem solving auto-pilot and stop blindly trying to move through or around the problem. Take time to analyze how and why the problem popped up and prepare to address it step-by-step. Appreciate that the problem presents the opportunity to become an effective problem solver.

First step, examine the anatomy of a problem. In the workplace, common causes are co-worker conflict, customer dissatisfaction, process dysfunction and mechanical failure. Could it be a combination of factors?

Once you have clearly identified the root problem(s), it’s time for action. Positive action. Do not fall into the trap of hoping a problem will go away, looking for someone (else) to blame or rushing to come up with the right solution immediately. This is key. Solutions do not belong at the beginning of the problem solving process but at the end. So take time to get it right.

Problem Solving 101

Ready to tackle your problem? Make sure you and other participants have allowed emotions to cool and are ready to work dispassionately.

Step back and try to see the bigger picture. Make a candid assessment of what if any role you may have played in creating the problem.

Pinpoint the issues at stake. Field and clarify different perspectives from all actors. The goal is to find a solution that satisfies everyone’s interests.

Activate your listening skills. Engage in active listening, offering physical and/or verbal signs that you understand and appreciate what people are saying to you. Put aside any perceived or real differences and listen with the goal of truly understanding.

Evaluate and select the best solution. Collaborate with your problem solving peers to ensure the solution is the best possible. Is there one best solution, or can several options be “bundled” together to form a solution meeting a broad number of interests?

Brainstorm solutions. Employ creativity (and patience) in finding the point (or points) of mutual interest. Carefully assess whether a solution really meets the need of your interests. Too often, people become attached to one particular solution, at the expense of their interests.

Try-Storming is brainstorming with a twist; ideas are quickly generated and tested rather than slowly developed and analyzed. The process has three basic principles: 1) It is not important to create perfect solutions; 2) Be action-oriented and 3) Keep solutions simple.

Delineate the solution in a written agreement. Memory can be faulty. Outlining the solution in written form also helps participants to think through all the implications. And the document serves as a touchstone for review on an ongoing basis to ensure needs are still being met.

Effective problem solving is a skill that is required on an on-going basis both at work and in life. Becoming disciplined about your problem-solving process will yield positive solutions and lessen your stress and unease about tackling workplace troubles. So the next time a problem arises at work, take a deep breath and know that you are armed with the tools to tackle it head on.

Problem? Solved.