I want to talk about getting in front of problems.
You’ve probably heard the phrase "not being snookered behind the 8 ball," right? Well, in business, it’s all too easy to end up in a situation where you’re backed up against a problem.
Whether it's internal team disputes, supplier issues, or customer challenges, it's easy to feel stuck. What’s more common is the instinct to retreat behind emails and messages, hoping that resolves it.
Unfortunately, that only leads down a path of miscommunication, frustration, and even more conflict. I believe in a more proactive approach: get in front of the problem before it escalates.
When a problem arises, it’s natural to take some time to think things through. But don’t let that time become an excuse for inaction. The most effective solution will always be communication.
If you can, pick up the phone. If it's an in-person situation, take five minutes to sit down and have a non-threatening conversation.
I’m not suggesting you ignore the problem, but by taking the time to understand the other person’s viewpoint, you can often avoid unnecessary escalation.
Don’t go into these conversations with the mindset of "I’m right, you’re wrong." Instead, approach them with curiosity.
Ask questions like,
- "What’s your perspective on this?" or
- "Why do you see it that way?"
You might be surprised to find that there are valid points to be made on both sides.
By stepping into these conversations with an open mind, you’ll start to understand the situation more clearly. This will help you become a better leader and a better communicator.
Often, the person you're dealing with might even have insights or solutions that are better than your own, and that's not a bad thing—it’s an opportunity to learn and grow.
It’s not about "winning" the conversation or proving who’s right. It’s about finding a solution that moves the business forward without distractions.
This approach prevents the problem from taking up unnecessary space in your day-to-day work and keeps everyone focused on what really matters.
I've seen companies get consumed by issues like HR problems or supplier disputes. These things can take up hours of management time, creating a negative atmosphere in the workplace. But most of the time, these issues could have been resolved quickly by getting in front of the problem and addressing it early.
Remember, the goal isn’t just resolving the issue - it’s to do so in a way that allows you to stay on top of your priorities.
Whether you're managing sales, customer service, or fulfilling orders, getting caught up in conflicts can pull you away from the bigger picture.
That’s why addressing the issue early, and with the right mindset, can prevent it from becoming a major distraction.
Ask the Right Questions
Instead of confronting someone with a "Why did you do that?" which can feel combative, try asking,
- "Help me understand why you think this approach is the best?"
The latter question is much more inviting and less likely to put the other person on the defensive. When you approach problems like this, you'll find that people respond better, and you're more likely to reach a resolution that benefits everyone.
In short, getting in front of the problem means addressing it head-on, with empathy and understanding. It’s a skill that pays off in smoother operations, less stress, and better relationships across the board.
Always here to help you start, grow, and thrive. Let me know how I can support your next big move.