Career NorthStar News - Issue 4: Complex Business Problem Solving
- jessica9071
- Nov 14
- 3 min read
Career North Star Newsletter • November 14 • Issue 4
Highlights
In our most recent discussion, AL, Jessica, and I dive into this key attribute of a great professional and consultant: Complex Business Problem Solving. In a time where AI is advancing rapidly at memorization and data processing, it is crucial for early career professionals to have an edge when it comes to problem solving. That edge comes from critical thinking and intellectual curiosity.
Complex Problem Solving
Gen Z has an advantage in challenging existing methods by asking fundamental who, what, where, when, why, and how questions without bias. The best and most creative solutions to the most complex problems in business are those created when leveraging human expertise (senior and early career professionals) alongside today’s AI tools.
The memorization and data processing capabilities of AI can seem like they are replacing the skillset of those entering the workforce when in fact AI is enriching what Gen Z can bring to the table. Those just starting out in the workforce, particularly members of Gen Z, have a unique advantage: they can ask critical questions without bias. A simple “why is it done this way?” question during a meeting can make other participants think intrinsically and solve problems more creatively when they get out of their comfort zone and question existing methods and assumptions.
The combination of critical thinking and intellectual curiosity allows room for all participants to pause, unpack, and challenge a presented business problem or opportunity, as well as identify missing components or ethical impacts.
Aside from some basic questions to delve deeper into problems, there are many more ways the next generation can sharpen their problem solving skills. Another way you can strengthen your problem solving skills is observe and follow up. Paying close attention to the experts in meetings and taking the time to meet with them and ask specific questions to further your understanding will equip you to solve complex business problems in the future. The absolute best way to enhance problem solving abilities is to engage those senior team members who can super charge your own experience and increase your level of expertise. Taking the time to work through complex problems side by side with team members who have more subject matter knowledge creates a symbiotic relationship that will create unique solutions with all perspectives considered. Then, when you use all of the AI data-driven power at your finger tips, you are sure to solve business problems effectively and efficiently with time, cost, and quality accounted for.
AI can produce facts and multiple solutions, but it cannot discern the real underlying issues; the human ability to read between the lines and ask the right questions remains essential. Using a combination of Gen Z expertise, senior team member experience, and AI problem solving tools will only result in solutions to complex problems that benefit all parties involved.
Got a question or a comment? Drop it in the comment section. We would love to hear from you!
-Bridget (AL & Jessica)
Coming Next
About Us
Career North Star is dedicated to helping early career professionals and leaders build the skills, confidence, and connections they need to thrive. We believe in purposeful leadership, proactive ownership, and creating opportunities for all professionals to succeed. https://www.careernorthstar.net/
Keep in Touch
Comments