How to measure problem solving skills
Assessing problem-solving skills in candidates involves evaluating their analytical thinking, creativity, and ability to implement practical solutions.
Analytical thinking:
Evaluate a candidate’s analytical skills by assessing their ability to break down complex problems into manageable components. Inquire about their process for gathering and analysing relevant information.
Creativity in solutions:
Assess a candidate’s creativity in generating innovative solutions to problems. Inquire about instances where they approached challenges from different perspectives, leading to creative and effective solutions.
Decision-making process:
Effective problem-solving often involves decision-making. Evaluate a candidate’s decision-making process by asking about how they weigh pros and cons and reach well-founded conclusions in problem-solving scenarios.
Resourcefulness:
Assess a candidate’s resourcefulness in finding solutions with limited resources. Inquire about situations where they demonstrated the ability to achieve goals despite constraints or challenges.
Implementation skills:
Effective problem solvers not only identify solutions but also implement them successfully. Inquire about instances where candidates have taken initiative and implemented practical solutions to address specific challenges.
Collaborative problem-solving:
Evaluate a candidate’s ability to work collaboratively on problem-solving initiatives. Inquire about experiences where they contributed to group problem-solving efforts and how they facilitated collaboration within a team.
Learning from mistakes:
Assess a candidate’s ability to learn from mistakes and setbacks. Inquire about instances where they encountered challenges, and evaluate their capacity to adjust their approach and improve based on those experiences.
Time management:
Effective problem solvers can manage their time efficiently. Ask candidates about situations where they had to solve problems within tight deadlines and how they prioritised tasks to achieve successful outcomes.
These points provide a comprehensive framework for assessing problem-solving skills in candidates. A strong problem solver can positively impact an organisation by addressing challenges proactively and contributing to continuous improvement.
