If you really want to make full use of your team’s knowledge and experience when you are solving a problem here’s what you should do:
1. Ask the team for their opinion.
2. And then shut up and listen.
Too often in teams when a problem needs to be solved and everyone turns to the leader expecting the leader to solve it.
And every time the leader provides an easy solution
1. It reinforces the belief that the leader has all the answers.
2. It prevents people from using their own creativity and knowledge and limits their confidence
3. And it keeps the team dependent on the leader for solutions
But when you ask the team to find the solution, it allows them to move from problem focus to solution focus.
They start using their own thinking, experience and knowledge to solve the problem.
It opens new ideas and options.
So next time you have a problem to solve in the team try this:
1. Ask the team what they think
2. And listen closely with deep attention.
You might just be surprised by what your team has to offer.