Find the Problem Solver

In my last post, Be the Problem Solver, I talked about how you can increase your value to your employer by not shying away from the difficult problems. But I also pointed out that being the problem solver is only really possible if the domain of the problem fits within your skill set, and ideally that it involves doing something that you're already good at. But I left you in the dark about what to do when you know about a difficult and/or ugly problem, but it's not a good match for your skills.

All is not lost - you can still show your value to your employer by helping find the problem solver. In this case you're looking for someone who has the right skills and experience to attack the problem. This might be a bit more complicated, as you might not find someone within your company with the right skills and experience. Someone within the company is definitely ideal, but it's not mandatory. It could very well be that to truly deal with the problem, you need to bring in an outsider - it could be a contractor, a consultant, or perhaps even a short-term employee. This is where your past networking may play a crucial role - reach out to your network and see if anyone has recommendations for someone with the right skills and experience. Search here on LinkedIn for people using keywords that directly relate to the problem.

In the end, even if you're not the one directly attacking the problem, you're still showing your willingness to identify and deal with any problem by helping find someone who can attack it. And if you think about it, this is one of the key things that senior and executive level managers do - they match the right person to deal with specific projects, issues, or problems. You'll be showcasing your ability to do that, and who knows, it just might help lead to a promotion in your future!