Problem Solving & Goal Setting

We are experiencing a very unique time in the business world.  

Now that we’ve begun adapting to the ‘new normal’ and many of us are exploring what opportunities are before us, we may need first to resolve some interim problems/issues and set some new goals.

Why?

Well, having some clearly defined goals for a business and a team is a really positive thing.  It shows that there is a plan for moving forward.

If you saw our post on the Stop, Start or Continue model, you hopefully now (or will shortly) have a list of things for your business that you need to work on – the Start and the Continue.  You may need to also do a bit of work to close down the Stops.

So, how do you then work on this?   We suggest the GROW model.

This model is a great way to get your team involved in not only making suggestions of how to make your business better and stronger moving forward, but also be involved in making these suggestions come to life!

The GROW Model is one of the most widely used tools for goal-setting and problem-solving.  It provides a simple framework to work through. 

There are 4 key areas:

• Goal
• Reality
• Opportunity
• Will/Wrap-up/What next/Way forward?

Goal

This is the first priority. 

Once a topic for discussion is agreed, you need to work out what the desired end result will be, then a plan or how to achieve it!

Goals should be SMART : Specific, Measurable, Accurate, Realistic and Timely .   The goal should also be inspirational and positive, whilst being challenging and requiring them to stretch themselves and their abilities to achieve it.

Here’s some questions to help your team clarify the goal/s.

1. What do you want to achieve?
2. What outcome would be ideal?
3. What do you want to change?
4. Why are you hoping to achieve this goal?
5. What would the benefits be if you achieved this goal?

Reality

This is where you talk through the current reality of the situation, consider obstacles that may be faced, etc.  The focus here should always be the potential in the situation, not any problems that may arise.   

Here’s some questions to ask:

1. What is happening now (what, who, when, and how often)?
2. Have you already taken any steps towards your goal?
3. What progress have you made so far?
4. What do you think is stopping you?
5. On a scale of one to 10, how severe/serious/urgent is the situation?

Opportunity

This is where ‘options’ become apparent.  You’ve got the goal.  You’ve explored potential obstacles and the reality of where you are in relation to your goal/s.  Now you need to work through the options.

Here’s some questions to work through the options:

1. What are your options?
2. What’s the best/worst thing about that option?
3. What would happen if you did nothing?
4. What could be your first step?
5. Who else might be able to help?

Will / Wrap Up / What’s Next / the Way Forward

The final step in the process is all about actions!

Here’s some questions to help clarify your actions:

1. How will you go about it?
2. What do you think you can do right now?
3. What resources can help you?
4. When are you going to start?
5. How will you know you have been successful?