All Business Problems are People Problems

“All business problems are people problems.” My mentor said this to me. It was one of those universal statements that is used to begin a conversation. I must admit, I nodded my head in agreement and said, “Uh Huh” and blew it off (That Steven Covey selective listening thing).

Yet, this simple statement keeps ringing true. I challenge you to think of a problem your company is facing and prove that it ultimately DOES NOT come to “fixing the people” as the solution.

If there is a bad culture in your organization, it is usually because of someone or a group of people’s behavior. If there is a lack of trust in an organization, check the people involved. A lack of accountability? Check the attitudes and traits of the people working at the company.

Our machinery is old, outdated and is causing back-ups and bottle necks in production... how can that be a people problem? Who chose the machinery? Who is responsible for the capital budget? The maintenance of the equipment? Someone had to make the decision to not invest in new equipment, not budget for the future or not include in the price of the product the long-term capital allowance.

You say you have falling profits during a recession and that’s not a people problem? Check again. There are companies that weather the storm of economic downturns and sustain long term, because of the attitude of their PEOPLE. Innovation and creative new ways to produce a product or service come from THE PEOPLE.

So what is one of the most important decisions you make in the management of company? Who to hire. Finding the right person and putting them in the right position can fix a lot of problems your company has. Make a poor selection and you can magnify existing problems and or create new problems.

Your next biggest decision? How do I develop and retain my talent?

Harrison Assessments International does not take the hiring and development decision lightly. HAI offers a 30 minute online questionnaire that can help you choose the right person for the job and determine a developmental path that will result in success for them and for your company. Contact us to find out more.