Saturday, January 16, 2010

Problem Solving for Today’s Professional: The What-Why-What-Why Method

Every professional, in the process of their career, will encounter a circumstance which requires solid problem solving skills. Whether it is in the process of fulfilling their daily responsibilities or working on a large project, professionals can find themselves defined by how they approach problem solving. However, today’s professional has to keep several elements in mind.

In the past, problem solving was conducted in a vacuum. Decision makers made educated choices based on their needs and to fulfill their specific territorial demands but with little consideration to other stakeholders. While this methodology may have worked in the past, it is no longer valid today. There are too many people, too many stakeholders, which may be impacted by even the simplest decision; therefore, it is important to keep those individuals in mind when making and implementing a decision.

Keirsey Temperament Sorter

In terms of the Myers Briggs Personality test, this tool gives the test taker results on their temperment and personality characteristics, similar to the MB Type II Indicator: The Keirsey Temperament Sorter. While personality tests are really not a valid way to make employment-based decisions, the information contained within those tests are always interesting. Just be careful, though. These types of assessments have been proven to be easily "gamed" by the test taker.

The Jerk-O-Meter

Along the lines of workplace bullying. Here is a fun little assessment you might enjoy. The Jerk-O-Meter: http://www.media.mit.edu/press/jerk-o-meter

Stamping Out Workplace Bullies

Stamping Out Workplace Bullies is an article dealing with the increasing recognition that bullies aren’t necessarily just on the playground. With bullying impacting everything from productivity to turn-over, employers are starting to initiate programs meant to address this resource-draining problem.

Healthy Habits for the New Year

With the new year’s arrival, a lot of employees make the resolution to get healthier. Everything from weight loss and exercising more to stopping the smoking habit, employees will begin sincere attempts to tackle their health issues. As an employer, you can help!

Encourage your staff to use their breaks and lunch periods to get out and take a walk; change out your vending machines to healthier snack fare (e.g. nuts, whole grain crackers, granola, etc.); and, replace soda machines with bottled water and real fruit juice. Your employees will have more energy and will feel better, while focus and productivity will increase.

Who is HRB LLC?

HRB is HR Balance LLC – a consulting firm based out of Bellingham, Washington. In business since 2003, HRB focuses on human resources management, organizational development, and leadership coaching.

What We Believe In...

Vision:
We recognize who our stakeholders are and act with care and consideration in meeting the needs of those stakeholders in a timely, thoughtful, and respectful manner.


Integrity: We believe that truthful and consistent actions promote loyalty and trust. We must maintain credibility and accountability in all relationships, both as individuals and as professionals.

Balance:We will consider the needs of the individual, both professionally and personally - understanding balance in those areas will result in a stronger, dedicated, and loyal employee whose contributions to the big picture will exceed the investment made to achieve balance. We will also recognize the needs of the client, whose continued success depends on a balanced approach involving all facets of the client organization.

Voice: We will be a positive and productive voice for our stakeholders. We will advocate for inclusion, cooperation, and perspective.