The “bring me a solution” approach

Advocates of the approach “don’t bring me problems, bring me solutions” believe it increases empowerment, helps employees manage up and boosts careers. However, it is fraught with challenges.

• Not every problem has a quick solution.
• Solution-only thinking creates a culture of advocacy instead of inquiry, where each person wants their own particular solution instead of considering multiple perspectives.
• Employees may shut down in fear, breed a culture of intimidation, and prevent raising serious problems.