Tips for Solving Problems Together

This article is reposted from the Kamloops Chronicle, Vol 2, No 4.

Our ability to work together successfully has never felt so important than it does now. With the return of Trump’s leadership and the political tensions the world over, tariffs and the economy are on everyone’s radar. We have big problems to face. And not just at the federal level, but in every community across Canada. We need all hands on deck to find innovative solutions to ensure Canadians thrive. As a corporate facilitator who helps people navigate the challenges of working together, I have three tips you can try to make solving problems together a success.

The first tip I suggest is to invite as many people to the discussion as possible. We are all equal pioneers on today’s issues, so we need to focus on being inclusive instead of exclusive. We never know who will have the next idea that leads to the solution, and we cannot make good decisions unless we have all the information. So, invite anyone who has experience with the issue because diverse perspectives bring more information and more value.

The second suggestion is to support each other through the process. This is where things inevitably get messy. I firmly believe that we don’t need conflict management training to leverage diverse perspectives and diffuse difficult group dynamics. We simply need to create a safe space for people to collaborate. To do this, I think of one of the foundations of democracy: equal rights and equal responsibilities. We all have the right to a seat at the table, which also means we all have the responsibility to bring our best selves to the process. There are several ways I encourage positive interactions in the meetings I facilitate:

• Building a sense of community within the group is vital to encourage positive participation. I do this by celebrating successes and sharing good news, no matter how small. I often start by asking people to introduce themselves and share one good thing with the group.

• I ensure everyone gets one turn to talk before asking participants to share additional thoughts. People feel they belong when their voice is respected and heard. Honour everyone’s voice by sharing the mic equally.

• I encourage safe participation by providing the “Right to Pass.” It’s OK to be a listening participant. Listening is still learning.

  
  

The third suggestion to make working together a success is to encourage participants to let go of their ego and expectations. Innovating solutions requires new ideas to mix and simmer with other ideas, which doesn't happen when our ego is focused on one specific solution. Enforce a “Zero Judgement Zone” to ensure everyone sets their ego aside and lets ideas flow freely. Don’t form an opinion until after all the information is presented. Letting go of expectations is easier said than done, so encourage people to concentrate on opportunities, options, and possibilities.

Finding solutions to complex challenges happens when we create an environment that encourages strong relationships and leverages diverse perspectives. Working together is fundamental for success, especially now.