Creative Problem Solving
You sometimes hear people claiming to “ think outside of the box,” but what does that really mean? Often when problems arise that must be solved we automatically choose the quickest solution. However, if we step away from the situation and consider our options we are able to discover a solution that is long lasting and effective. Thinking outside of the box requires creative problem solving.
In a team environment to solve a problem creatively you must be open minded and positive, voice your opinions, encourage the opinions of others, accept all ideas, write them down, and consider them all no matter how far-fetched they may be. To tackle the problem at hand, you must outline the topics that need to be discussed, gather information about them, brainstorm possible solutions, evaluate each option, and then determine the best solution.
Customer Service
"Do less than customers expect and service is perceived as bad. Do exactly what customers expect and service is perceived as good . . .But do more than customers expect and service is perceived as superior."—John Tschohl
Every career in this world will require some form of customer service ability. Whether it be face-to-face communication or the effect your decisions have on customers, career success boils down to being knowledgeable of the needs and desires of the customer and responding to them. Your emphasis should be on treating customers as individuals instead of focusing on budgetary goals. To learn more about good customer service, visit http://sbinfocanada.about.com/od/customerservice/a/custservrules.htm.
