I’ve recently started working with a new start-up.
Joe, one of the founders shared his problem-solving framework for getting employees to feel good and solve massive problems.
This is a simplified version of the hero’s journey. It goes like this:
1. The call to adventure – An employee is given a problem to deal with
2. Meeting the mentor – This is the role you as a manager play and how you interact with the employee by asking the right question
3. Tests, allies, and enemies – The employee tests themselves to think about the problem
4. The ordeal – You, as a manager, pose a challenge to them
5. Crossing the threshold – The employee accepts the challenge and solves
Joe does this with two questions, as shown in the screenshot below:
- Is there any way to solve this for all time?
- Ok so what would you suggest?
This framework is simple, quick and easy to implement.
Frame up a big problem and then let them solve it.
Notes: The only way you create individual resourcefulness is by letting others solve big problems.
As managers, we tend to want to solve things to show our intellect or because we think we’re going to be faster, but that only acts as a band-aid.
Let other people shine and your job will get easier.
