Problem solving is a key skill. It can make a huge difference to one’s career.

Regardless of nature of the problems, a fundamental part of every employee’s role is finding ways to solve them. So, being a confident problem solver is extremely important to be successful in the workplace.

Much of that confidence comes from having a well-defined process to use when approaching a problem.

A well-defined process can solve problems quickly and effectively.

In the absence of a well-defined process, your solutions may be ineffective, or you'll get stuck and do nothing, with sometimes painful consequences.

A well-defined problem-solving process usually consists of the following 4 basic steps of:

1. Defining the problem

2. Generating alternative solutions

3. Evaluating and selecting the correct alternative and

4. Implementing the solution

Participants get an opportunity to learn one of the top 5 global employability skills of problem solving in this lecture.

There are helpful problem-solving tools and techniques available which can be used while solving problems in the workplace.

In this lecture, we will learn on how to use these problem-solving tools, which include using the flowcharts, “The 5 Whys” technique, The Simplex process, The Group Problem Solving process, the Root Cause Analysis and finally the Cause And Effect Analysis.

Awareness on how to use these tools and techniques ensures confident problem solving approach in the workplace.

In the context of corporate framework, team work is the process in which a group of individual employees contribute or work together in a cohesive manner to cater to the needs of their customers by accomplishing their purpose and goals.

In this lecture, you will learn different stages in which a team transforms from Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing and Adjourning or Mourning in the workplace.

You will also learn on different team behaviors that help achieve high performance while working in a corporate environment.

Communication is the exchange of information, intended or involuntary. It is either done against someone’s will or without conscious control.

The information exchanged can be in the form of ideas, instructions, or emotions.

Effective communication means that the information is provided in the right format, at the right time and with the right impact.

Efficient communication means providing only the information that is needed.

Communicate only information that contributes to success or where a lack of communication can lead to failure.

In this lecture, you will understand various methods of effective communication methods to be successful in the workplace.

In its broadest sense, adaptability is the ability to anticipate, adjust and evolve to be effective in our environment.

Over the past couple of decades there has been increased recognition of soft skills required to lead successfully.

But research and experience shows that a lot of leadership failures arise from an inability to adapt and let go of old behaviors.

In a world that is going to continue to throw new and novel situations for leaders to navigate, the need for adaptability in the workplace – to learn and unlearn – is critical to future success.

Of late, the pace of change is faster than ever, with no signs of slowing down any time soon.

This rapid change impacts us individually and collectively. It forces upon us fresh problems and challenges to which we need to respond.

In this fast-changing world, the most successful organisations will be those with the most adaptable workforce.

Every person, at every level of an organisation, must be able to adapt quickly and effectively. Without doing so, organisations risk being left behind.

Like many of the soft skills that modern businesses are looking for, adaptability can be learned and practiced.

Adaptability requires an ability to positively alter the mindset and actions, often in ways that are initially uncomfortable or even stressful, to conquer new challenges.

On-demand media giant Netflix adapted both its delivery system, from mail to streaming, and its content offerings to keep up with rapidly shifting consumer demands.

Technology companies like Microsoft and Apple have built empires on their constant innovation and adaptation.

Most of us have had to adapt to the changes they brought to our jobs, both positive and negative.

Modern workers must continually learn and excel at new software, apps, equipment and machinery.

This and other elements of change in a fast-paced world means employers are always more willing to hire and promote workers who demonstrate excellent adaptability in the workplace.

Now let us focus on learning a few mechanisms to demonstrate adaptability.

What are interpersonal skills, and why are they important in the workplace? Interpersonal skills, also known as people skills, are related to the way you interact and communicate with others.

Interpersonal skills are one of the top criteria used to evaluate candidates while recruiting.

Regardless of the type of job you are working on, it’s important to be able to get along well with co-workers, team leaders, project managers, customers, and vendors.

Strong interpersonal skills are essential for succeeding in today’s workplace.