When I’m at work: Solving problems

Have you had a problem at work? Do you wish you had handled it better? 2

If you have a problem at work, it is a good idea to sort things out. This is called problem solving. 3

Samantha’s story 4

What? What is the problem? 5

Who? Who is involved in the problem? 6

Why? Why is there a problem? 7

How? How can the problem be solved? 8

If you think you have a problem at work, there are a number of ways to sort things out … Talk to the person you are having a problem with. Talk to your supervisor to help you sort out the problem. Have a meeting with all the people who can help you sort out the problem. 9

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Why is it important to solve problems at work? People can get cross. Work does not get done. People are unhappy at work. Accidents can happen. Contracts can be lost. People leave work. 11

A job that you would like to do has been given to someone else? How would you feel if this happened to you? 12

Someone tells you they do not want to work with you anymore. How would you feel if this happened to you? 13

How would you feel if this happened to you? Another worker tells you that you are doing your job wrong, when you know this is not true. How would you feel if this happened to you? 14

So, what will you do now if you have a problem at work? 15

Bruce’s story Similar format to scenario 1. 16 16

Lily’s story Similar format to scenario 1. 17 17

Some dos of problem solving Do say what the problem is for you. Do listen to what the problem is for the other person. Do attack the problem, not the person. Do look for solutions that suit you both. 18

Some don’ts of problem solving Don’t call people mean names. Don’t put people down. Don’t be angry or aggressive. Don’t stop listening. 19