jobs with problem solving skills

13 Best Jobs for Problem Solvers (High Paying)

September 27, 2023

Searching for high-paying jobs that let you flex your problem-solving muscles?

We’ve got a collection of exciting careers that not only pay well but are all about tackling challenges head-on. If you love solving problems and want a hefty paycheck, these jobs are for you.

What Makes a Good Job for Problem Solvers?

We narrowed down jobs that:

Involve analytical thinking and strategy
Have a work setting where every day is different
Require quick decision-making in high-stakes situations
Let you work on projects from conception to completion
Give you a say in shaping the outcome

Best Jobs for Problem Solvers

Sure, some of the jobs on this list might ask for a college degree but don’t fret if you’re missing that piece of paper. Many of these jobs offer great pay, even if you’ve gained expertise through experience or certifications.

So, enough chit-chat. Let’s dive right into our top picks for jobs perfect for problem solvers.

1. Air Traffic Controller

Average salary: $67,020

An Air Traffic Controller directs and organizes the flow of aircraft on the ground and in the sky, ensuring safe operations.

Job duties:

Coordinate aircraft takeoffs and landings
Monitor and direct flight paths
Provide real-time updates to pilots
Handle emergency situations
Manage air traffic within control zones

Job requirements:

FAA Air Traffic Pre-Employment Test
At least 3 years of progressively responsible work experience
Age under 31 when applying
U.S. citizenship
Ability to prioritize tasks rapidly
Quick decision-making under pressure

2. Sales Engineer

Average salary: $77,247

A Sales Engineer, also known as a Solutions Engineer or Technical Sales Engineer, combines technical knowledge with sales skills to provide advice and support on a range of products.

Explain complex technical concepts to customers
Develop and deliver product demonstrations
Collaborate with sales teams
Create customized solutions
Analyze market trends and customer needs
Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field
2-5 years of experience in a technical role
Familiarity with CRM software
Strong negotiation skills
Ability to explain complex concepts clearly
Strong presentation skills

3. Ethical Hacker

Average salary: $106,617

An Ethical Hacker, also known as a White Hat Hacker or Penetration Tester, intentionally probes computer systems for security vulnerabilities.

Identify security flaws in systems
Conduct penetration tests
Simulate cyber attacks
Report findings
Offer remediation strategies
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
2+ years experience in cybersecurity
Familiarity with programming languages like Python or C++
Strong understanding of networking
Good report-writing skills

4. Quality Assurance Manager

Average salary: $107,316

A Quality Assurance Manager, sometimes just called a QA Manager, oversees the quality of products or services in a company.

Inspect products for defects
Manage QA team
Enforce quality standards
Audit processes
Report to higher-ups
3+ years of QA experience
Strong grasp of QA methodologies
Ability to manage a team
Strong attention to detail

5. Business Intelligence Analyst

Average salary: $102,648

A Business Intelligence Analyst, also known as a BI Analyst, translates data into actionable insights for a company.

Analyze business data
Create data visualizations
Forecast trends
Generate reports
Recommend strategies
Proficiency in SQL
2+ years in data analysis
Familiarity with BI tools like Tableau
Good communication skills

6. Product Manager

Average salary: $165,818

A Product Manager, sometimes abbreviated as PM, drives the strategy, roadmap, and execution of a product.

Define product goals
Develop product roadmap
Prioritize features
Coordinate with dev teams
Analyze user feedback
2+ years in product management
Familiarity with Agile methodology
Strong leadership skills
Good problem-solving abilities

7. Logistics Coordinator

Average salary: $42,690

A Logistics Coordinator manages the supply chain, from vendor relationships to product delivery.

Track shipments
Coordinate deliveries
Liaise with vendors
Monitor inventory
Resolve shipping issues
Familiarity with logistics software
Time management skills

8. Acoustic Consultant

Average salary: $120,619

An Acoustic Consultant analyzes sound and vibration to optimize acoustics, often for construction or entertainment settings.

Measure noise levels
Analyze data
Recommend changes
Develop sound profiles
Consult with clients
Bachelor’s degree in Acoustical Engineering or Physics
Experience with acoustic measurement tools
Data analysis skills
Basic understanding of construction or architectural design
Good listening skills

9. Fraud Investigator

Average salary: $67,347

A Fraud Investigator looks into suspicious activities to identify and prevent fraud; also known as a forensic investigator.

Collect evidence
Interview suspects
Write reports
Collaborate with law enforcement
Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice or related field
Experience in investigative work
Basic accounting skills
Strong communication skills
Solid attention to detail

10. UX Designer

Average salary: $95,572

A UX Designer focuses on user experience design to make products more user-friendly.

Sketch wireframes
Develop prototypes
Conduct user tests
Analyze feedback
Collaborate with developers
Portfolio showcasing UX design work
Familiarity with design software like Sketch or Figma
Understanding of basic HTML and CSS

11. Disaster Recovery Specialist

Average salary: $78,723

A Disaster Recovery Specialist plans and implements strategies for dealing with emergencies and natural disasters, sometimes known as crisis management professionals.

Assess risks
Create plans
Train staff
Coordinate drills
Manage emergencies
Update recovery strategies
Professional certifications in disaster recovery
Knowledge of federal and state regulations
Strong leadership abilities
Ability to make quick decisions
Good at multitasking

12. Private Investigator

Average salary: $54,578

A Private Investigator, often called a PI or detective, conducts surveillance and gathers information for clients.

Conduct surveillance
Gather evidence
Interview people
Verify facts
Handle confidential data
State-issued license for private investigation
Prior experience in a similar role
Basic tech-savvy skills for data retrieval
Strong observational abilities
Good written and verbal communication
Adaptability to varied work environments

13. Technical Writer

Average salary: $76,519

A Technical Writer translates complex technical language into easily digestible documents, also known as documentation specialists.

Research topics
Write manuals
Edit drafts
Collaborate with tech teams
Update existing documents
Review quality
Experience with specific industry jargon
Basic understanding of the technology being documented
Good research skills
Ability to work under tight deadlines
Teamwork and collaboration skills

See, There Are Careers for Problem Solvers!

From Air Traffic Controller to Business Intelligence Analyst, this roster is packed with rewarding opportunities for those who love tackling challenges.

Got a favorite on the list? We’d love to hear your thoughts, so drop a comment.

26 Jobs For Thinkers And Problem Solvers (Logic Lovers’ Lane)

Are you a critical thinker or a mastermind problem solver? Love unraveling complex situations and finding solutions?

You’re in luck!

Today, we’re delving into a list of dream jobs for thinkers and problem solvers.

From data analysts to engineers. Each one is thoughtfully curated for those who thrive in logical reasoning and problem-solving situations.

Imagine using your mind’s power to solve challenging problems and find creative solutions. Day in, day out.

Sounds exciting, right?

So, ready up your analytical mindset,

And get set to discover your dream profession!

Data Scientist

Average Salary: $85,000 – $120,000 per year

Data Scientists analyze and interpret complex data to help organizations make better and more timely decisions.

This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who enjoy using statistical techniques, machine learning, and predictive modeling to solve real-world problems.

Job Duties:

Collecting and Cleaning Data : Gather data from various sources and ensure it is accurate and usable for analysis.
Statistical Analysis : Apply statistical methods to analyze data and generate useful business insights.
Building Predictive Models : Create models that predict future trends and outcomes based on historical data.
Developing Machine Learning Algorithms : Design and implement machine learning algorithms to automate complex processes and decision-making.
Data Visualization : Create visual representations of data to help stakeholders understand findings and make informed decisions.
Collaborating with Teams : Work with cross-functional teams to define goals and implement data-driven strategies.

Requirements:

Educational Background : A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field is typically required.
Technical Skills : Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, or SQL, and experience with data analysis tools and databases.
Analytical Thinking : Strong analytical skills with the ability to collect, organize, analyze, and disseminate significant amounts of information with attention to detail and accuracy.
Problem-Solving : Aptitude for tackling complex problems and providing actionable solutions.
Communication Skills : Ability to translate complex data into clear insights for non-technical stakeholders.

Career Path and Growth :

Data Scientists have a critical role in shaping the strategies of modern organizations.

As data continues to drive business decisions, the demand for skilled data scientists is expected to grow.

With experience, Data Scientists can advance to roles such as Senior Data Scientist, Data Science Manager, or Chief Data Officer.

Opportunities for specialization in areas like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics are also abundant.

Software Developer

Average Salary: $70,000 – $120,000 per year

Software Developers are the creative minds behind computer programs and applications.

They design, code, test, and maintain software systems to meet the needs of users and clients.

This role is perfect for thinkers and problem solvers who enjoy tackling complex challenges and creating innovative solutions through programming.

Designing Software Solutions : Develop and implement efficient code to create software applications that fulfill user requirements.
Problem-Solving : Analyze software issues and devise workable solutions to fix bugs and enhance performance.
Testing and Debugging : Create and execute testing protocols to ensure software functionality and reliability, and debug code to resolve any identified issues.
Collaborating with Teams : Work with other developers, designers, and product managers to ensure cohesive project outcomes and to integrate software with existing systems.
Continuous Learning : Stay current with the latest programming languages, development methodologies, and emerging technologies in the industry.
Documentation : Produce clear and detailed documentation to support other developers and users, ensuring that future maintenance and updates can be carried out effectively.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field is typically required.
Technical Skills : Proficiency in multiple programming languages such as Java, C++, Python, or JavaScript, and experience with databases, APIs, and development frameworks.
Analytical Thinking : Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think logically and algorithmically.
Attention to Detail : Careful attention to detail to write clean, efficient, and error-free code.
Teamwork : Ability to collaborate effectively within a team environment and communicate with non-technical stakeholders.
Adaptability : Flexibility to adapt to changing project requirements and learn new technologies or programming languages as needed.

A career as a Software Developer offers a vast landscape of opportunities for growth.

Developers can advance to senior developer roles, become specialists in specific technologies, transition into management positions, or even start their own technology companies.

Continuous education and certification in new technologies can further enhance a developer’s career prospects, leading to roles such as Software Architect, Project Manager, or Chief Technology Officer.

Civil Engineer

Average Salary: $65,000 – $95,000 per year

Civil Engineers design, build, supervise, operate, and maintain construction projects and systems in the public and private sector, including roads, buildings, airports, tunnels, dams, bridges, and systems for water supply and sewage treatment.

This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who enjoy applying mathematics and science to design and create infrastructure that safely shapes our world.

Analyzing Survey Reports : Evaluate survey reports, maps, and other data to plan projects effectively.
Designing Infrastructure Projects : Develop design documents for a wide range of infrastructure projects using CAD software.
Permitting and Compliance : Ensure projects meet legal standards and secure the necessary permits from government agencies.
Project Management : Oversee and direct construction projects from conception to completion, taking into account budgeting and operational requirements.
Risk Analysis : Conduct risk assessments for projects, considering natural disasters and other potential issues.
Technical Innovation : Stay abreast of the latest engineering techniques, materials, and practices to enhance efficiency and sustainability.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field is required, with a Master’s degree preferred for some positions.
Engineering Skills : Strong grasp of engineering principles, mathematics, and materials science.
Problem-Solving Abilities : Excellent analytical skills and the ability to devise solutions to complex engineering challenges.
Communication Skills : Ability to communicate effectively with team members, clients, and stakeholders at all levels.
Licensing : Professional Engineer (PE) license is necessary for certain positions, especially those involving public projects.

Civil Engineers have a critical role in shaping the infrastructure of society.

They have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects and may specialize in areas such as structural, transportation, environmental, or geotechnical engineering.

With experience, Civil Engineers can advance to senior management roles, become project managers, or even start their own engineering consulting firms.

Continuous education and specialization can lead to increased responsibility, higher-paying positions, and the ability to work on more complex and innovative projects.

Management Consultant

Average Salary: $80,000 – $150,000 per year

Management Consultants provide expert advice to organizations seeking to improve their business performance in terms of operations, profitability, management, structure, and strategy.

This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who enjoy analyzing complex business challenges and crafting strategic solutions.

Problem-Solving : Identify and dissect business problems, and develop strategic solutions to improve client performance.
Business Analysis : Conduct thorough analyses of business data to understand trends, uncover issues, and find opportunities for growth.
Strategic Planning : Assist clients with the formulation and implementation of business strategies.
Client Recommendations : Present findings and recommendations to clients through detailed reports and presentations.
Change Management : Guide organizations through the process of implementing change, from strategy to execution.
Staying Informed : Keep up-to-date with the latest business trends, management practices, and industry-specific developments.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Management, Economics, or related fields; an MBA is often preferred.
Problem-Solving Skills : Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills to tackle diverse business issues.
Business Acumen : A strong understanding of how businesses operate, including knowledge of finance, marketing, and human resources.
Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective client interactions and presentations.
Adaptability : Ability to work with a variety of clients across different industries and adapt strategies to their unique challenges.

As a Management Consultant, you have the potential to significantly impact businesses and their success.

With experience, you can move into more senior roles, such as a Senior Consultant, Project Manager, or Partner in a consulting firm.

There’s also the possibility of specializing in a certain industry or functional area, or eventually starting your own consulting business.

Financial Analyst

Average Salary: $55,000 – $85,000 per year

Financial Analysts are responsible for examining financial data and trends to help businesses and individuals make investment decisions.

This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who enjoy analyzing numbers, predicting market trends, and providing strategic financial recommendations.

Analyzing Financial Data : Examine financial statements to evaluate the financial health of companies and determine their value.
Forecasting : Use statistical software and models to predict future business conditions and stock performance.
Creating Reports : Compile analytical reports and present findings to management or clients to inform decision-making processes.
Assessing Market Trends : Keep abreast of market trends and economic conditions that may affect investments and business strategies.
Advising on Investment Opportunities : Provide recommendations on portfolio composition, investment choices, and asset management based on detailed analysis.
Regulatory Compliance : Ensure that all financial practices and recommendations are in line with current laws and regulations.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or CFA may be preferred for advanced positions.
Analytical Skills : Strong proficiency in analyzing financial data and creating forecasting models.
Attention to Detail : Ability to identify and focus on the details and nuances that could affect financial outcomes.
Technical Skills : Proficient in financial software, databases, and spreadsheets; knowledge of SQL, Python, or other data analysis tools is a plus.
Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills to explain complex financial concepts and strategies.
Problem-Solving : Strong problem-solving skills to evaluate investment risks and opportunities.

Financial Analysts have the potential to influence the financial strategy of their employers or clients significantly.

Career growth can lead to positions such as Senior Financial Analyst, Finance Manager, Investment Banker, Portfolio Manager, or Chief Financial Officer.

Continuous education and staying updated on economic conditions, market changes, and new analytical tools are essential for career advancement.

Cybersecurity Analyst

Average Salary: $70,000 – $100,000 per year

Cybersecurity Analysts are responsible for protecting an organization’s computer systems and networks from cyber threats, including intrusion, malware, and unauthorized access.

This role is ideal for individuals with a knack for thinking critically and solving complex problems, ensuring the digital safety of businesses and their customers.

Monitoring Security Systems : Keep a vigilant eye on security systems, identifying and mitigating potential threats in real-time.
Conducting Security Assessments : Perform regular audits and assessments of systems to identify vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
Developing Security Protocols : Create and implement robust security measures and protocols to defend against cyber attacks.
Responding to Incidents : Act swiftly to contain and resolve security breaches or incidents, minimizing damage and preventing future occurrences.
Threat Intelligence Gathering : Stay up-to-date with the latest cyber threats, trends, and hacker tactics to anticipate and prepare for future challenges.
Training and Education : Educate staff on best practices for cybersecurity and raise awareness on how to prevent data breaches.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field is typically required.
Technical Skills : Strong understanding of firewalls, VPNs, Data Loss Prevention, IDS/IPS, Web-Proxy, and Security Audits.
Problem-Solving Abilities : Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to think critically and solve complex technical issues.
Attention to Detail : Vigilance and a keen eye for detail to spot irregularities that could indicate a security breach.
Communication Skills : Effective communication skills to articulate security policies and procedures to other team members and management.
Certifications : Professional certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CEH, or CompTIA Security+ are highly desirable.

As a Cybersecurity Analyst, you play a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity of information systems.

With experience and ongoing education, you can advance to senior analyst roles, become a cybersecurity consultant, or move into management positions overseeing entire security departments.

The importance of cybersecurity continues to grow, offering a stable and evolving career path for dedicated professionals.

Mathematician

Average Salary: $60,000 – $120,000 per year

Mathematicians use advanced mathematics to develop and understand mathematical principles, analyze data, and solve real-world problems.

This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who enjoy diving deep into numbers, theories, and applications to make sense of complex systems.

Conducting Research : Work on developing new mathematical theories and concepts, which can have applications across various fields such as science, engineering, and economics.
Applying Mathematical Techniques : Use mathematical methods to analyze data and solve practical problems in business, engineering, the sciences, or other fields.
Developing Models : Create mathematical models to simulate real-world phenomena and provide insight into complex issues.
Collaborating with Professionals : Work with scientists, engineers, and other specialists to address interdisciplinary challenges.
Publishing Findings : Write technical reports and research papers that contribute to academic and applied mathematics knowledge.
Staying Informed : Keep up-to-date with the latest mathematical discoveries and advancements in the field.
Educational Background : A Master’s or Doctorate degree in Mathematics or a related field is typically required.
Analytical Skills : Strong ability to reason logically and work on abstract concepts, with attention to detail and accuracy.
Problem-Solving : Excellent problem-solving skills to develop new mathematical approaches and solutions.
Technical Proficiency : Familiarity with mathematical software and tools that aid in computation and visualization.
Communication Skills : Ability to explain complex mathematical concepts to non-experts, including writing clear and concise research papers.

Mathematicians have a wide array of career opportunities in academia, industry, government, and technology sectors.

With experience, mathematicians can lead research projects, become consultants in various industries, or advance to academic positions such as professors.

They may also become specialists in subfields of mathematics or interdisciplinary areas, contributing to innovations and advancements in technology, science, and beyond.

Operations Research Analyst

Average Salary: $60,000 – $90,000 per year

Operations Research Analysts apply advanced analytical methods to help organizations solve complex problems and make better decisions.

This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who enjoy using mathematics, statistics, and computer science to analyze data and improve operations.

Problem-Solving : Identify and clarify complex issues within an organization’s operations and develop mathematical or simulation models to test solutions.
Data Analysis : Collect and analyze data related to operational efficiency, resource allocation, supply chains, and other business processes.
Optimizing Operations : Use analytical methods, such as statistical analysis, predictive modeling, and optimization algorithms, to improve decision-making and streamline operations.
Software Proficiency : Utilize specialized software, including statistical analysis tools, databases, and visualization software, to interpret and present data effectively.
Collaborative Projects : Work with cross-functional teams to implement changes based on findings and ensure that strategic objectives are met.
Continuous Improvement : Regularly review operational processes and recommend improvements, staying abreast of the latest analytical techniques and technologies.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Operations Research, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field is often required. Advanced degrees may be preferred for senior positions.
Analytical Skills : Strong capabilities in problem-solving, analytical thinking, and decision-making, with a deep understanding of quantitative analysis.
Technical Proficiency : Familiarity with various statistical software, databases, and programming languages such as Python, R, or SQL.
Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills to translate complex analytical findings into clear, actionable recommendations for non-technical stakeholders.
Detail-Oriented : Ability to pay attention to details and ensure the accuracy of data and models.

Operations Research Analysts have the opportunity to significantly impact an organization’s efficiency and profitability.

With experience and a track record of successful projects, they can move into leadership roles, managing teams of analysts or becoming chief operations officers.

There is also the potential to specialize in particular industries, such as healthcare, logistics, or finance, further enhancing career prospects.

Computer Systems Analyst

Computer Systems Analysts play a critical role in evaluating and optimizing the technological infrastructure of businesses.

They ensure that computer systems are efficient, secure, and aligned with the organization’s goals.

This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who enjoy delving into complex systems and creating solutions that improve business operations.

Analyzing System Requirements : Review and assess the current technology infrastructure, understanding the needs and limitations to suggest improvements.
Designing Solutions : Develop strategies to increase system efficiency and integration, reducing costs and improving workflows.
Implementing New Systems : Oversee the configuration and deployment of new technologies, ensuring a seamless transition from old systems.
Problem Solving : Troubleshoot and resolve system issues, providing support to minimize downtime and maintain productivity.
Documentation : Create detailed reports on system performance, documenting changes and upgrades for future reference.
Staying Current : Continuously learn about emerging technologies and industry trends to recommend timely updates and keep systems modern.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field is typically required.
Analytical Skills : Strong problem-solving abilities and analytical skills to assess system functionalities and propose effective solutions.
Technical Proficiency : In-depth understanding of hardware, software, and networks, with the ability to grasp complex technical concepts.
Communication Skills : Excellent written and verbal communication skills, necessary for explaining technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
Attention to Detail : A meticulous approach to work, ensuring accuracy in system analysis and the implementation of solutions.

As a Computer Systems Analyst, there is significant potential for career advancement.

With experience, one can move into roles such as IT Project Manager, Chief Information Officer (CIO), or IT Consultant.

Analysts may also choose to specialize in specific industries or types of systems, increasing their expertise and value in the market.

The constant evolution of technology also presents ongoing opportunities for learning and professional development.

Biomedical Engineer

Biomedical Engineers combine principles of engineering with biological and medical sciences to design and create equipment, devices, computer systems, and software used in healthcare.

This career is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who are passionate about improving patient care and advancing medical technology.

Designing Medical Equipment : Create sophisticated medical devices and equipment, such as artificial organs, prostheses, instrumentation, medical imaging devices, and health management and care delivery systems.
Developing Software : Write software to support medical instrumentation and equipment, such as computer-aided surgery or therapy.
Conducting Research : Perform research to develop new solutions to medical health problems, such as improved materials for implanted artificial organs.
Collaborating with Healthcare Professionals : Work closely with medical professionals to understand their needs and design effective engineering solutions.
Ensuring Regulatory Compliance : Ensure that biomedical equipment and systems comply with patient safety regulations and standards.
Testing and Evaluation : Test the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of biomedical equipment or systems.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering or a related field is required, with a Master’s or Doctorate preferred for advanced positions.
Technical Skills : Proficiency in the design and development of medical devices and systems, along with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Interdisciplinary Knowledge : An understanding of both engineering principles and biological sciences to effectively bridge the gap between technology and medicine.
Attention to Detail : Precision and attention to detail are crucial in the development and testing of biomedical equipment and devices.
Communication Skills : The ability to communicate complex technical information to non-engineers, including healthcare professionals.

Biomedical Engineers have the opportunity to make a real difference in the health and well-being of individuals by improving medical technologies and healthcare delivery systems.

With experience, Biomedical Engineers can move into more advanced research roles, management positions, or specialize in a particular area of biomedical engineering, such as genetic engineering or medical imaging.

There are also opportunities for entrepreneurship in developing innovative medical devices and technologies.

Statistician

Average Salary: $60,000 – $100,000 per year

Statisticians apply mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze and interpret data, helping to solve real-world problems across various industries including government, healthcare, and finance.

This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who enjoy using data to discover patterns, inform decisions, and predict future trends.

Collecting Data : Design surveys, experiments, or opinion polls to collect data relevant to research questions or business needs.
Analyzing Data : Apply statistical methods to analyze and interpret data, identifying trends, relationships, and causal factors.
Reporting Findings : Create comprehensive reports and visualizations to communicate statistical findings to stakeholders or the general public.
Advising Policy or Decision Making : Use statistical analysis to advise on policy development, business strategy, or other decision-making processes.
Developing New Methodologies : Innovate and develop new statistical models and methodologies to improve data analysis and interpretation.
Ensuring Data Integrity : Verify data for accuracy and consistency, ensuring that analyses are reliable.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Economics, or a related field is required, with many positions preferring a Master’s degree or Ph.D.
Technical Skills : Proficiency with statistical software (such as R, SAS, or SPSS), databases, and programming languages (like Python or SQL).
Analytical Thinking : Strong analytical skills to understand complex data and extract actionable insights.
Communication Skills : Ability to communicate complex statistical concepts and findings to non-experts in a clear and concise manner.
Attention to Detail : Keen attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of data and analyses.

A career as a Statistician offers the opportunity to contribute to a wide range of fields by providing data-driven insights.

With experience, Statisticians can advance to senior analytical roles, become lead researchers, or specialize in areas such as biostatistics or econometrics.

There is also potential to transition into data science or high-level consultancy positions.

Physicists explore and identify the fundamental principles governing the forces and elements of nature, from the smallest subatomic particles to the entire universe.

This role is well-suited for individuals who have a deep passion for understanding how the universe operates and have an innate ability to solve complex problems through scientific methods.

Conducting Research : Perform experiments and calculations to discover new information about the physical world.
Analyzing Data : Interpret data from experiments and observations to develop theories or confirm existing models of the physical universe.
Developing Theories : Formulate physical theories that can predict the outcomes of future experiments and observations.
Writing Scientific Papers : Document findings and theories in scientific papers that contribute to academic and practical knowledge in physics.
Collaborating with Peers : Work with other scientists and researchers to share knowledge, discuss theories, and improve understanding of physical phenomena.
Staying Informed : Continuously update knowledge on the latest discoveries and advancements in the field of physics.
Educational Background : A Ph.D. in Physics or a closely related field is typically required for research positions.
Analytical Skills : Strong ability to analyze complex data and mathematical concepts to solve physical problems.
Critical Thinking : Exceptional critical thinking skills to develop theories and devise experiments.
Communication Skills : Ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively, both in writing and verbally.
Technical Proficiency : Skilled in using advanced scientific equipment and computer programs for modeling and analysis.

A career in physics offers the opportunity to make significant contributions to scientific knowledge and technology.

Physicists may advance to lead their research teams, become professors in academic institutions, or transition into specialized fields such as astrophysics, biophysics, or medical physics.

With experience and a proven track record of impactful research, physicists can also secure positions in government agencies or private industry, influencing the development of new technologies and policies.

Economists analyze data, research trends, and evaluate economic issues for resources, goods, and services.

This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who are interested in how societies allocate their resources and the consequences of these decisions.

Conducting Economic Research : Gather and analyze data using mathematical models and statistical techniques to understand economic phenomena.
Policy Development Support : Provide insights and recommendations to governments or organizations for economic policies based on research findings.
Forecasting Trends : Predict economic trends and potential impacts on various sectors by analyzing data and economic indicators.
Writing Reports and Papers : Craft detailed reports and academic papers to communicate findings on economic research and analysis.
Presenting Findings : Clearly communicate complex economic concepts and research results to stakeholders, policymakers, or the public.
Continued Learning : Stay updated on current economic issues, policy changes, and new analytical techniques in the field of economics.
Educational Background : A Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Economics is highly desirable, although some positions may only require a Bachelor’s degree with significant coursework in economics.
Analytical Skills : Strong ability to interpret and analyze data, and excellent critical thinking skills to solve complex problems.
Technical Proficiency : Expertise in statistical analysis software, spreadsheets, and databases is essential.
Communication Skills : Excellent written and verbal communication skills to explain complex concepts and findings to non-specialists.
Detail-Oriented : Ability to pay close attention to details and accuracy when conducting research and analysis.

Starting as an economist can lead to a variety of career opportunities.

Economists may advance to senior analytical positions, become subject matter experts, or lead research teams.

Experienced economists may also take on advisory roles in government, international organizations, or think tanks.

Additionally, they might pursue a career in academia, teaching the next generation of economic thinkers and problem solvers.

Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineers design, develop, and maintain electrical systems and components to required specifications, focusing on economy, safety, reliability, quality, and sustainability.

This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who enjoy applying their knowledge of mathematics and science to solve complex problems in innovative and practical ways.

Designing Electrical Systems : Create plans for new electrical systems, including circuitry, power distribution, and electronics, tailored to project requirements.
Improving Existing Systems : Analyze and evaluate electrical systems, identifying inefficiencies and potential areas for improvement.
Problem-Solving : Troubleshoot issues that arise during the design, testing, and manufacturing phases of electrical products.
Project Management : Oversee projects from conception through to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget.
Collaboration : Work with other engineers, technicians, and cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives.
Staying Current : Continuously update knowledge on the latest electrical engineering technologies, standards, and compliance regulations.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field is required. A Master’s degree or Professional Engineer (PE) license may be preferred for some positions.
Technical Skills : Strong understanding of electrical systems, circuit design, and the application of engineering principles.
Problem-Solving Abilities : Excellent analytical skills and the ability to resolve complex issues with innovative solutions.
Communication Skills : Proficient verbal and written communication skills, necessary for collaborating with team members and documenting work.
Attention to Detail : A meticulous approach to the design and implementation of electrical systems to ensure safety and compliance.

A career as an Electrical Engineer offers diverse opportunities for advancement in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, energy, manufacturing, and technology.

With experience, electrical engineers can progress to senior engineering roles, management positions, or specialize in cutting-edge areas like renewable energy or smart grid technology.

Continuous professional development, further education, and obtaining advanced certifications can accelerate career growth in this field.

Aerospace Engineer

Average Salary: $75,000 – $115,000 per year

Aerospace Engineers apply their expertise to design, develop, and test spacecraft, aircraft, satellites, and missiles, as well as analyze and solve problems in aerospace systems.

This role is ideal for individuals with a deep fascination for aviation and space technology who are keen on applying scientific and mathematical principles to innovate in the field of aerospace.

Designing Aerospace Systems : Create advanced designs for aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles, considering factors such as aerodynamics, materials, propulsion, and structural integrity.
Conducting Simulations and Tests : Run computer simulations and physical tests to assess and refine aerospace systems’ performance under various conditions.
Problem-Solving : Troubleshoot and resolve complex engineering problems that arise during the design, testing, and manufacturing processes.
Research and Development : Stay at the forefront of technological advancements to innovate and improve aerospace technologies.
Collaboration : Work with interdisciplinary teams, including scientists, engineers, and other professionals, to bring aerospace projects to completion.
Technical Documentation : Prepare detailed documentation, including design specifications, maintenance manuals, and technical reports, to ensure compliance with industry standards.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is essential, with many positions requiring a Master’s degree or higher.
Technical Skills : Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software, simulation tools, and a solid understanding of engineering principles and aerodynamics.
Attention to Detail : Precision and attention to detail are critical when designing and testing aerospace systems to ensure safety and functionality.
Problem-Solving Abilities : Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex engineering challenges.
Teamwork : Ability to work effectively in a team environment, often coordinating with other engineers and professionals.

A career as an Aerospace Engineer offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects that push the boundaries of what is possible in aviation and space exploration.

With experience, Aerospace Engineers can advance to lead engineering teams, specialize in areas like propulsion systems or avionics, and move into higher-level management roles or consultancy.

The field also offers continuous learning opportunities as technology evolves, ensuring a dynamic and fulfilling career path for those with a passion for aerospace innovation.

Mechanical Engineer

Average Salary: $70,000 – $95,000 per year

Mechanical Engineers are responsible for designing, analyzing, and developing machines and mechanical systems.

This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who enjoy applying principles of engineering and physics to design innovative solutions.

Designing Mechanical Systems : Develop blueprints for new mechanical systems, including engines, machinery, and tools, using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
Prototyping and Testing : Build prototypes and conduct experiments to test the design, function, and durability of mechanical components and systems.
Problem-Solving : Identify and troubleshoot issues with existing machinery and systems, devising solutions to improve efficiency and performance.
Project Management : Oversee the development of mechanical systems from conception through to production, ensuring projects meet technical specifications and deadlines.
Collaboration : Work closely with other engineers, including electrical, civil, and manufacturing engineers, to integrate mechanical systems effectively.
Continual Learning : Stay updated on the latest engineering techniques, materials, and technologies to enhance designs and applications.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field is required, with a Master’s or higher preferred for some positions.
Technical Skills : Proficient in CAD software, knowledge of finite element analysis (FEA), and understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and materials science.
Problem-Solving Aptitude : Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills to address complex engineering challenges.
Attention to Detail : Precision and attention to detail in design, testing, and troubleshooting mechanical systems.
Communication Skills : Clear communication abilities to collaborate with team members and to document and present design processes and solutions.

Mechanical Engineering offers a robust career path with diverse opportunities across various industries including automotive, aerospace, energy, manufacturing, and robotics.

With experience, Mechanical Engineers can rise to senior design and project management roles, specialize in cutting-edge fields like renewable energy or robotics, or become consultants offering expertise on complex engineering projects.

AI Researcher

Average Salary: $100,000 – $150,000 per year

AI Researchers develop new algorithms, models, and systems that enable machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence.

This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who are passionate about advancing the field of artificial intelligence and its applications.

Conducting Innovative Research : Develop and test new AI theories and algorithms, pushing the boundaries of what machines can learn and accomplish.
Collaborating with Cross-Disciplinary Teams : Work alongside engineers, data scientists, and subject matter experts to apply AI research to solve complex problems in various industries.
Publishing Findings : Share research outcomes through academic papers, conference presentations, and patents, contributing to the wider AI community.
Experimenting with Data : Utilize large datasets to train and refine machine learning models, ensuring their accuracy and reliability.
Staying Current with AI Trends : Keep up-to-date with the latest advancements in AI, machine learning, and related fields to inform ongoing research.
Engaging in Peer Review : Participate in the peer review process for scholarly articles and research proposals, maintaining the quality and integrity of AI research.
Educational Background : A Master’s or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related field is highly preferred.
Technical Proficiency : Strong programming skills and experience with machine learning frameworks and libraries.
Analytical Skills : Excellent problem-solving abilities and a keen interest in tackling complex intellectual challenges in AI.
Research Experience : A track record of published research or projects in AI or related disciplines.
Collaborative Mindset : Ability to work effectively in collaborative, interdisciplinary teams to integrate AI solutions.
Critical Thinking : Capable of critically evaluating research, methodologies, and results to ensure the highest standards of academic rigor.

This role offers the opportunity to be at the forefront of AI innovation, contributing to advancements that could reshape industries and impact everyday life.

With experience, AI Researchers can progress to leadership positions in research institutions, tech companies, or start their own ventures.

They may also become thought leaders, influencing the direction of AI policy and ethics.

Logicians are professionals who specialize in analyzing and evaluating complex problems through critical thinking and advanced reasoning skills.

This role is perfect for individuals who excel in logical analysis, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

Problem Analysis : Break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts to understand the underlying issues better.
Formulating Solutions : Develop structured and logical approaches to solve problems and optimize processes.
System Evaluation : Assess systems and processes to identify areas for improvement or potential issues before they arise.
Research and Data Analysis : Collect and interpret data to support conclusions and recommendations.
Collaboration : Work closely with other professionals to brainstorm solutions and implement strategies effectively.
Continuous Learning : Stay up-to-date with the latest methodologies in logical reasoning and problem-solving techniques.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mathematics, Computer Science, Philosophy (with a focus on logic), or a related analytical field is preferred.
Analytical Skills : Strong ability to analyze information, identify patterns, and use logic to address work-related issues.
Attention to Detail : Keen eye for detail and a methodical approach to work tasks.
Communication Skills : Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas clearly and concisely.
Critical Thinking : Adept at objective analysis and evaluation of an issue to form a judgment.

A career as a Logician offers numerous pathways for advancement, including roles in data analysis, operations research, strategic planning, and higher-level management positions.

With experience and a proven track record of problem-solving, Logicians can lead teams, contribute to innovative projects, and play a key role in decision-making processes within an organization.

Forensic Scientist

Average Salary: $50,000 – $70,000 per year

Forensic Scientists play a critical role in the criminal justice system, applying scientific principles and techniques to analyze physical evidence from crime scenes.

This career is perfectly suited for thinkers and problem solvers who are fascinated by the intersection of science and law.

Analyzing Evidence : Examine and process evidence from crime scenes, which can include DNA, blood, hair, and other biological specimens.
Interpreting Data : Use scientific methods to interpret analytical results, which are crucial in determining the outcome of a criminal case.
Testifying in Court : Serve as an expert witness in court, presenting findings and explaining evidence to judges and juries.
Writing Reports : Document analytical methods and results in detailed reports that are understandable to those without scientific training.
Collaborating with Law Enforcement : Work closely with law enforcement agencies to provide timely and accurate scientific support.
Continuing Education : Stay abreast of the latest advancements in forensic science to continually improve the quality and accuracy of evidence analysis.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees are beneficial for higher-level positions.
Analytical Skills : Strong analytical thinking and attention to detail to ensure accurate evidence handling and interpretation.
Communication Skills : Ability to communicate complex scientific information effectively, both in writing and verbally, to a non-scientific audience.
Integrity : High ethical standards and integrity are crucial, as the results of forensic analysis can have significant legal implications.
Technical Proficiency : Familiarity with laboratory equipment, scientific instruments, and computer software used for data analysis.

Forensic Scientists can find employment in government labs, private labs, law enforcement agencies, and medical examiner offices.

With experience and further education, they can advance to supervisory or managerial positions, specialize in areas such as DNA analysis or toxicology, or engage in research and development to improve forensic techniques.

Some may also choose to pursue academic careers, teaching the next generation of forensic scientists.

Clinical Psychologist

Average Salary: $75,000 – $100,000 per year

Clinical Psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat individuals experiencing psychological distress and mental illness.

They also perform psychotherapy and develop treatment plans.

This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who are passionate about understanding human behavior and helping others improve their mental health.

Assessing Mental Health : Conduct thorough assessments to diagnose a range of psychological, emotional, and behavioral disorders.
Developing Treatment Plans : Create tailored treatment strategies based on individual client needs and evidence-based practices.
Conducting Psychotherapy : Provide psychotherapy to individuals, groups, or families using various therapeutic techniques and modalities.
Research and Evaluation : Stay current with research and apply new knowledge to clinical practice. Evaluate the effectiveness of treatments and make necessary adjustments.
Consultation and Collaboration : Work with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care and coordinate services for clients.
Mental Health Education : Educate clients and their families about mental health conditions and coping strategies.
Educational Background : A Doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology, often including a one-year internship.
Licensure : Must be licensed to practice as a Clinical Psychologist, which typically requires passing a state exam and accruing supervised clinical experience.
Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to empathize and build rapport with clients.
Problem-Solving Abilities : Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to develop effective treatment plans.
Continuing Education : Commitment to lifelong learning to keep up-to-date with the latest therapy techniques and research findings.

Clinical Psychologists have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the well-being of individuals and communities.

With experience, they can specialize in areas such as child psychology, neuropsychology, or health psychology.

Career advancement may include supervisory roles, private practice, academic positions, or research leadership.

Medical Researcher

Average Salary: $80,000 – $120,000 per year

Medical Researchers are vital in the advancement of healthcare, as they conduct studies and experiments to understand diseases, develop treatments, and improve patient outcomes.

This role is perfect for thinkers and problem solvers who are driven to unravel the complexities of human health and disease.

Conducting Clinical Trials : Design and implement clinical studies to test new drugs, treatments, or medical devices for effectiveness and safety.
Performing Laboratory Research : Carry out experiments in the lab to understand disease mechanisms and discover potential therapeutic targets.
Analyzing Data : Use statistical tools to analyze research data, drawing conclusions that could lead to breakthroughs in medical science.
Writing Research Papers : Document findings in scientific papers and present research at conferences, contributing to the global body of medical knowledge.
Collaborating with Healthcare Professionals : Work alongside doctors, nurses, and other researchers to translate research findings into clinical practice.
Staying Current : Keep up to date with the latest medical research, technologies, and methodologies in the field.
Educational Background : A Ph.D. or MD, often with a focus in a specialized area of medical science, is highly recommended.
Analytical Skills : Strong ability to think critically and solve complex scientific problems.
Research Experience : Proven experience in laboratory techniques, research design, and data analysis.
Attention to Detail : Meticulousness in conducting experiments, recording data, and analyzing results.
Communication Skills : Excellent written and verbal communication skills to share findings with the scientific community and possibly the public.
Collaborative Spirit : Ability to work effectively in a team, often with interdisciplinary members.

Medical Researchers have the potential to make a significant impact on public health and individual lives through their discoveries.

Career advancement often leads to positions as lead investigators, heads of research departments, or positions in academia.

Experienced researchers might also consult for pharmaceutical companies or work in policy development to shape the future of healthcare and research.

Logistics Specialist

Average Salary: $45,000 – $70,000 per year

Logistics Specialists are responsible for overseeing and facilitating the supply chain operations of a company.

They ensure that goods are delivered on time, efficiently, and cost-effectively.

This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who enjoy optimizing processes and overcoming logistical challenges.

Coordinating Transportation : Plan and manage the shipment of products across various transport channels, ensuring timely delivery.
Inventory Management : Monitor inventory levels and reorder supplies as necessary to prevent disruptions in the supply chain.
Troubleshooting : Address and resolve any issues that arise during the shipping and receiving process, such as delays or damaged goods.
Vendor Relations : Maintain strong relationships with shipping vendors and negotiate contracts to secure the best rates and services.
Supply Chain Strategy : Develop and implement strategies to streamline operations and reduce costs while maintaining quality.
Data Analysis : Utilize logistics software to track shipments, analyze performance data, and make informed decisions for improvements.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field is often required.
Problem-Solving Skills : Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to tackle logistical challenges and optimize supply chain processes.
Attention to Detail : Keen attention to detail to ensure accuracy in order processing, inventory management, and documentation.
Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills for coordinating with team members, vendors, and customers.
Adaptability : Flexibility to adapt strategies and operations in response to changing market conditions and supply chain disruptions.

A career as a Logistics Specialist opens up numerous opportunities for professional growth within the field of supply chain management.

With experience, Logistics Specialists may advance to roles such as Logistics Manager, Operations Manager, or Supply Chain Director, where they can have a more significant impact on the company’s strategic planning and execution of logistics operations.

Cryptographer

Average Salary: $70,000 – $150,000 per year

Cryptographers are the masterminds who use algorithms and ciphers to enhance digital security, ensuring the safe transmission and storage of sensitive data.

This role is a perfect match for those who love solving complex problems and have an interest in protecting information in the digital world.

Developing Encryption Algorithms : Create complex encryption methods to secure digital communications and transactions.
Analyzing Cyber Threats : Assess and mitigate vulnerabilities by evaluating potential threats to information security.
Decryption and Cryptanalysis : Attempt to break codes and uncover weaknesses in encryption systems to improve security measures.
Implementing Cryptographic Systems : Integrate cryptographic techniques into software and network infrastructure.
Research and Development : Stay ahead of cybercriminals by researching new cryptographic methods and technologies.
Collaboration with IT Teams : Work closely with IT security teams to develop comprehensive protection strategies for organizational data.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Cryptography, or a related field is generally required.
Technical Skills : In-depth knowledge of programming languages, algorithms, and data structures is crucial.
Problem-Solving Abilities : Strong analytical skills and a talent for tackling complicated mathematical and computer science problems.
Attention to Detail : Keen attention to detail to identify subtle weaknesses in cryptographic systems.
Continuous Learning : Commitment to ongoing education in evolving cryptographic techniques and cybersecurity threats.

Cryptographers play a critical role in the defense against cybercrime, making their skills highly sought after in various industries.

With experience, cryptographers can advance to lead roles in cybersecurity teams, specialize in particular cryptographic methods, or move into higher education and research positions.

The constant evolution of digital threats ensures a dynamic and challenging career with plenty of opportunities for growth and innovation.

Artificial Intelligence Engineer

Artificial Intelligence Engineers develop and implement AI models and systems that can simulate human intelligence processes.

They work in a variety of industries, from tech to healthcare.

This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who are fascinated by the potential of machines to learn and make decisions, advancing the field of artificial intelligence.

Designing AI Models : Create sophisticated models that enable machines to process and learn from data.
Implementing Machine Learning Algorithms : Apply and adjust algorithms to solve complex problems and improve the performance of AI systems.
Data Analysis : Interpret and manage data to train models and improve AI decision-making capabilities.
Collaborating with Cross-functional Teams : Work with software developers, data scientists, and product managers to integrate AI solutions into various applications.
Staying Current with AI Trends : Keep up-to-date with the latest advancements in AI research and technologies to implement cutting-edge solutions.
Problem-Solving : Tackle challenges in AI development and deployment, ensuring the systems are ethical, efficient, and effective.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related field is essential, with a preference for advanced degrees.
Technical Proficiency : Strong programming skills in languages such as Python, R, Java, and experience with machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch.
Understanding of AI Principles : Deep knowledge of neural networks, machine learning algorithms, and other AI methodologies.
Analytical Skills : Ability to analyze large data sets and build data-driven AI models.
Collaboration : Strong collaboration skills to work with teams across different disciplines.

AI Engineers have excellent prospects for growth in an ever-expanding field.

With experience, they can move into lead roles, manage teams, or specialize in emerging areas of AI such as natural language processing or robotics.

The demand for AI solutions across industries ensures that AI Engineers will remain at the forefront of technological innovation, making significant contributions to the way we live and work.

Philosopher

Average Salary: $50,000 – $75,000 per year

Philosophers engage in the critical study of fundamental questions that concern existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language.

This role is ideal for deep thinkers who enjoy exploring and discussing the profound aspects of human life and the universe.

Researching Philosophical Theories : Delve into various philosophical schools of thought and contribute original ideas or critiques.
Lecturing and Teaching : Share knowledge with students or the public through educational institutions, seminars, or workshops.
Writing Scholarly Papers and Books : Produce texts that explore philosophical questions, theories, and arguments.
Engaging in Debates and Discussions : Participate in academic or public forums to debate philosophical issues and exchange perspectives.
Consulting on Ethical Matters : Offer expertise on ethical considerations in various fields, such as business, technology, or healthcare.
Continual Learning : Stay abreast of new developments in philosophical thought and cross-disciplinary research that impacts philosophical inquiry.
Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy is required, with many professionals pursuing Master’s or Doctorate degrees.
Analytical Skills : Exceptional ability to analyze complex ideas, identify underlying principles, and construct logical arguments.
Passion for Inquiry : A profound interest in questioning and examining life’s big questions and a desire to seek knowledge and truth.
Communication Skills : Strong written and verbal communication skills for articulating philosophical concepts and engaging with diverse audiences.
Critical Thinking : Capacity to think critically and challenge conventional wisdom with reasoned arguments and insight.

Philosophers have the opportunity to influence thought across various domains of human activity.

With experience, they can become recognized experts, leading voices in ethical debates, or tenured professors at academic institutions.

Their insights can also lead to roles in think tanks, government advisory positions, or consulting roles where strategic thinking and ethical considerations are paramount.

Attorneys, also known as lawyers, represent and advise individuals, businesses, and government agencies on legal issues and disputes.

This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who enjoy analyzing complex cases, advocating for their clients, and navigating the intricacies of the law.

Legal Research and Analysis : Conduct thorough research and analysis of legal precedents and statutes to build solid cases or defend clients.
Court Appearances : Represent clients in court, presenting evidence and arguments to judges and juries.
Client Consultation : Provide legal advice to clients, explaining the law and discussing strategies for their case.
Document Preparation : Draft legal documents such as contracts, wills, and pleadings, ensuring all paperwork is filed correctly and in a timely manner.
Case Management : Manage caseloads and maintain detailed records for all cases, from initial consultation to resolution.
Continuing Education : Keep up to date with changes in law and legal practice to provide the most current and effective representation.
Educational Background : A Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school is required.
Bar Examination : Must have passed the bar examination in the state where they wish to practice.
Strong Analytical Skills : Ability to analyze large amounts of information, determine relevant facts, and propose viable solutions.
Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills for arguing cases, negotiating settlements, and drafting legal documents.
Interpersonal Skills : Proficiency in interacting with clients, colleagues, judges, and others involved in the legal process.
Ethics : A strong sense of ethics and the ability to maintain client confidentiality.

Attorneys have the potential for career advancement in various legal fields, such as corporate law, criminal justice, or public interest law.

Experienced attorneys may become partners in law firms, judges, or transition to roles in academia.

Additionally, they may specialize in niche areas of law, becoming recognized experts and thought leaders in their field.

And there you have it.

A comprehensive list of the most fulfilling jobs for thinkers and problem solvers.

With the vast array of options, there’s definitely something to suit every analytical mind out there.

So go ahead and pursue your dreams of using your logical and critical thinking skills in your everyday work.

Remember: It’s NEVER too late to turn your intuitive problem-solving knack into a successful career.

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The Editorial Team at InterviewGuy.com is composed of certified interview coaches, seasoned HR professionals, and industry insiders. With decades of collective expertise and access to an unparalleled database of interview questions, we are dedicated to empowering job seekers. Our content meets real-time industry demands, ensuring readers receive timely, accurate, and actionable advice. We value our readers' insights and encourage feedback, corrections, and questions to maintain the highest level of accuracy and relevance.

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Best Careers for Problem Solving: Top Opportunities for Critical Thinkers

Problem-solving is a highly sought-after skill in today’s job market, as it plays a critical role in finding solutions to complex problems and driving innovation across various industries. Whether it’s science, technology, education, or healthcare, professionals with a knack for identifying issues and developing effective strategies to address them are invaluable assets in any organization. By pursuing a career that aligns with their natural strengths, individuals with strong problem-solving skills can have a fulfilling and successful career while making a significant impact in their chosen field.

Key Takeaways

Understanding problem solving.

Problem solving is a critical skill in many careers, as it involves the ability to identify, analyze, and resolve issues or challenges that one may encounter in their work. Problem-solving skills are closely related to analytical skills and analytical thinking, both of which involve breaking down complex information into simpler, more manageable components. This process often includes brainstorming, creativity, teamwork, and solid decision-making abilities.

In many job roles, employees are expected to exhibit strong problem-solving skills, as they contribute significantly to the company’s overall success. These skills enable them to tackle various challenges and develop innovative solutions. One key aspect of problem solving is the ability to think critically in order to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. This may involve weighing the pros and cons of different options, understanding the risks involved, and making a decision that will yield the best possible outcome.

Strong problem solvers also exhibit flexibility in their thinking. They are open to various perspectives and approaches, and can adapt their strategies based on new information or changes in circumstances. This level of adaptability is essential for navigating the rapidly evolving workspaces of today, where new challenges continually emerge.

Moreover, effective problem solving often involves collaboration and teamwork. Working together with others enables individuals to leverage diverse skills and perspectives, which can lead to more well-rounded and innovative solutions. By embracing collaboration, professionals can also foster a productive work environment that encourages open communication, mutual respect, and shared responsibility for achieving successful outcomes.

Role of Problem Solving in Careers

Problem solving is a crucial skill across a wide array of careers, as it enables professionals to tackle challenges, enhance efficiency, and drive innovation. Various occupations require a strong foundation in problem solving, and individuals who excel in this area enjoy a more successful and fulfilling work life.

In the field of computer science , problem-solving skills are critical to success. This includes roles such as software developers, who are responsible for designing and coding computer programs, as well as project managers, who oversee the development process. These individuals use their problem-solving abilities to troubleshoot issues, optimize system performance, and create innovative solutions to meet client needs.

Several other careers, including respiratory therapy technicians , social and community-service managers , magistrates , ophthalmologists , anesthesiologists , detectives , statisticians , and air traffic controllers , require problem-solving as a core competency. In each of these professions, individuals rely on their critical thinking skills and practical problem-solving approach to address challenges effectively.

Problem Solving in Science and Mathematics

Engineering is one such career path that emphasizes problem solving. Engineers design, build, and maintain structures, systems, and devices to solve real-world issues. They apply mathematical and scientific principles to their work, and their goal is to improve the quality and efficiency of products, systems, and services. This field includes various branches, such as civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering, providing a diverse range of opportunities for problem solvers.

Mathematics is another field where problem-solving skills are highly valued. Careers in mathematics demand strong logical and analytical abilities to solve complex equations and models. Actuaries, for example, focus on assessing risk and uncertainty in various financial contexts. They evaluate the potential outcomes of different scenarios and make data-driven decisions to minimize risks. This profession is ideal for those who enjoy tackling challenges, and combining mathematical and statistical knowledge with practical applications.

Overall, careers in science, engineering, and mathematics are ideally suited for individuals who enjoy problem solving. These fields offer a wide range of opportunities for critical thinkers to apply their skills and contribute to advancements in various industries. By pursuing a career in any of these domains, problem solvers can combine their passions with their professional aspirations, making a meaningful impact in the world around them.

Methods and Tools for Problem Solving

Brainstorming is a popular technique for generating ideas and uncovering potential solutions. It encourages creativity by allowing individuals to freely share their thoughts and ideas without judgement. It is important for teams to create a comfortable environment where everyone feels encouraged to contribute.

Training is essential in developing strong problem-solving skills. Regularly investing in workshops, seminars, or online courses can help individuals stay up-to-date with the latest problem-solving strategies and tools. Additionally, encouraging a culture of learning and collaboration in the workplace can lead to more efficient problem-solving and a stronger team dynamic.

Significance of Education and Training

Education and training can be viewed as a fundamental stepping-stone in preparing individuals for a successful career in problem-solving. Academic backgrounds ranging from engineering and mathematics to social sciences and management provide diverse perspectives and tools for solving complex real-world problems. Furthermore, specialized training equips individuals with practical knowledge and technical expertise, making them more effective problem solvers in their respective fields.

The US Department of Labor highlights the importance of education and training in problem-solving careers by stating that higher-level positions often demand a stronger academic background, along with specialized training and certifications. 2 This demonstrates the correlation between proper education, training, and career success in problem-solving-based fields.

Using Occupational Information for Career Guidance

When seeking the best careers for problem-solving, one valuable resource is the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) . O*NET is a comprehensive database created by the US Department of Labor that compiles detailed information on hundreds of occupations. This network assists individuals in making informed decisions about their career paths based on their problem-solving skills and interests.

While exploring O*NET, users can also examine related occupations and industries, providing further insight into potential career paths. By evaluating various aspects of each occupation and considering the required education and training, individuals can make informed decisions about pursuing a career that aligns with their problem-solving abilities.

Specific Careers for Problem Solvers

Actuaries , for instance, are tasked with assessing and analyzing financial risks for insurance companies, and making data-driven decisions based on their calculations. Actuaries utilize their analytical skills and statistical knowledge on a daily basis, making it a natural fit for problem solvers.

Other careers in the science field, such as chemists and statisticians , also involve problem-solving skills as they conduct research, analyze data, and develop models. Radiologists – who interpret medical imagery and diagnose diseases – and neurologists – who diagnose and treat neurological disorders – are examples of problem-solving careers in the medical field.

In the realm of management, project managers and logistics managers tackle complex challenges by organizing resources, managing timelines, and ensuring smooth coordination of operations. Successful management professionals exhibit strong problem-solving skills, which are essential in navigating various scenarios and achieving goals.

Importance of Management and Decision-Making Skills

In today’s competitive business world, management and decision-making skills play a crucial role in the success of an organization. For professionals like chief executives and project managers, these skills are essential to effectively handle various situations and challenges that arise in the workplace.

Moreover, decision-making in management often involves collaboration and teamwork. Managers need to communicate their vision and goals effectively, listen to inputs from team members, and be open to different perspectives and ideas . By fostering a collaborative environment, they can harness the collective intelligence of the team and achieve better results.

The 20 best jobs for people who love to solve problems

Some people are natural-born problem solvers. Others develop the skill over time. Either way, there are several jobs that are perfect for this group of people, where day-to-day tasks involve tackling information and problems head-on to devise solutions.

We filtered through data from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) , a US Department of Labor database that compiles detailed information on hundreds of jobs, to find 20 that place high importance on "making decisions and solving problems ." We also checked out the average annual salary and projected percent change in employment from 2014 to 2024 for each job on the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) website .

O*NET judges how important " a nalyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems " is in any job, assigning each a score between one and 100. Positions that involve more problem solving, like physician assistants and chief executives, rank higher — while jobs that don't require much problem solving, like tour guide and waiter, rank lower.

Check out the 20 best jobs for problem solvers below:

No. 20. Hospitalist

Average annual salary (2015): $197,700*

Problem-solving importance level: 93

What they do: Provide inpatient care, including medications and treatments in intensive-care units, medical wards, rehabilitation facilities, and nursing homes.

Education requirements: Bachelor's and master's degrees, followed by a PhD or an MD

Projected growth through 2024: 14%

*BLS includes this occupation under "Physicians and Surgeons, All Other."

No. 19. Administrative law judge, adjudicator, or hearing officer

Average annual salary (2015): $93,140

What they do: Conduct hearings to review claims and determine liability for government-related matters and programs.

Education requirements: Bachelor's and master's degrees, usually followed by a JD.

Projected growth through 2024: -1%

No. 18. Obstetrician or gynecologist

Average annual salary (2015): $222,400

What they do: Provide medical care to women during pregnancy and childbirth.

Education requirements: Bachelor's and master's degrees, followed by an MD.

Projected growth through 2024: 14%

No. 17. Education administrator, elementary and secondary school

Average annual salary (2015): $92,940

What they do: Typically referred to as elementary- or secondary-school principals whose job is to enforce discipline and attendance policies for students and teachers.

Education requirements: Bachelor's and master's degrees, sometimes followed by a PhD.

Projected growth through 2024: 6%

No. 16. Midwife

Average annual salary (2015): $93,610

What they do: Provide prenatal care to mothers and assist with childbirth and infant care.

Education requirements: Bachelor's degree, and master's degree as an advanced-practice registered nurse (APRN).

Projected growth through 2024: 31%

No. 15. Actuary

Average annual salary (2015): $110,560

What they do: Analyze statistical data regarding mortality, accident, sickness, and disability to predict the probability of future risk and liability.

Education requirements: Bachelor's degree and must pass a series of certified exams.

Projected growth through 2024: 18%

No. 14. Respiratory therapy technician

Average annual salary (2015): $49,720

Problem-solving importance level: 94

What they do: Work with patients in need of respiratory care in emergency rooms, neonatal or pediatric intensive care, or surgical-intensive care.

Education requirements: Most jobs in this area require vocational-school training.

Projected growth through 2024: 12%

No. 13. Social and community-service manager

Average annual salary (2015): $69,430

What they do: Plan, direct, coordinate, and oversee social-service or community-outreach programs and organizations. Includes job titles like social worker and adoption-services manager.

Education requirements: Bachelor's degree, sometimes a master's degree.

Projected growth through 2024: 10%

No. 12. Preventive-medicine physician

Average annual salary (2015): $197,700*

What they do: Assist and aid nurses, physicians, or statisticians in the prevention of disease, injury, or death.

Education requirements: Bachelor's and master's degrees, followed by a PhD or an MD.

*BLS includes this occupation under Physicians and Surgeons, All Other.

No. 11. Physician assistant

Average annual salary (2015): $99,270

What they do: Assist physicians by conducting patient physicals, treatment, and counseling.

Education requirements: Bachelor's and master's degrees.

Projected growth through 2024: 30%

No. 10. Chief executive

Average annual salary (2015): $185,850

Problem solving importance level: 94

What they do: Provide overall direction and implement policies of a company. Typical job titles include chief executive officer, chief operating officer, and executive vice president.

Education requirements: Bachelor's and master's degrees.

No. 9. Judge, magistrate judge, or magistrate

Average annual salary (2015): $116,100

What they do: Preside over a court of law with the ability to sentence defendants in criminal cases and determine defendant liability in civil cases. May also perform wedding ceremonies.

Education requirements: Bachelor's and master's degrees, followed by a JD.

No. 8. Ophthalmologist

Problem-solving importance level: 95

What they do: Conduct eye exams and vision correction, like optometrists, but are also trained to perform eye surgery, including cataracts and glaucoma.

No. 7. Anesthesiologist

Average annual salary (2015): $250,100

What they do: Physicians who administer a sedative drug called anesthesia before surgery, and monitor patients during and after surgery.

Projected growth through 2024: 14%*

*BLS includes this figure under "Physicians and Surgeons, All Other."

No. 6. Air-traffic controller

Average annual salary (2015): $118,740

Problem-solving importance level: 96

What they do: Control, authorize, and regulate airplane traffic at and in between airports.

Education requirements: Bachelor's degree or work experience totaling three years, in addition to exams and a Federal Aviation Administration academy course.

Projected growth through 2024: -9%

No. 5. Nurse anesthetist

Average annual salary (2015): $160,250

Problem-solving importance level: 97

What they do: A dminister anesthesia, monitor patient vital signs, and oversee patient recovery after surgery.

No. 4. Radiologist

Average annual salary (2015): $197,700*

Problem-solving importance level: 98

What they do: Examine and interpret the results of a patient x-ray and communicate diagnostic information regarding diseases or disorders to patients and physicians.

*BLS includes this occupation under "Physicians and Surgeons, All Other.

No. 3. Neurologist

Average annual salary (2015): $197,700*

What they do: Physicians who diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and disorders of the brain and central-nervous system.

No. 2. Sports-medicine physician

Average annual salary (2015): $197,700*

What they do: Diagnose, treat, and help prevent sport-related injuries in athletes.

Education requirements: Bachelor's and master's degrees, follow by PhD or an MD.

Projected growth through 2024: 14%*

No. 1. Government-property inspector or investigator

Average annual salary (2015): $55,100*

Problem-solving importance level: 100

What they do: Inspect government property to ensure that things are in order with contract agreements and government regulations.

Projected growth through 2024: 8%

*BLS includes this occupation under "Construction and Building Inspectors (state government)."

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Software Developers, Lawyers, and 11 Other Occupations That Demand Frequent Problem-Solving

May 4, 2023

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Only about 14% of civilian workers have to solve problems on a daily basis, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics . But some jobs are all about problem-solving.

Looking at the BLS 2022 data, ClickUp found that software developers, executives, and lawyers are among the top 13 jobs that demand the most frequent problem-solving. Occupations on the list are ranked by the estimated percentage of workers in each job who had to solve problems more than once per day.

Over 100 jobs were reviewed in the analysis, and only those where more than half of the workers problem-solved multiple times daily made the rankings. Nearly half of the jobs on the list involve management responsibilities.

Management positions come with many problem-solving requirements because of the need to oversee people and processes; define goals and break them down into smaller, assignable tasks; and make resource management decisions based on theory and data.

Employers value problem-solving in the workplace because workers with these skills are better able to overcome challenges independently, suggest new ideas and improve processes , and save the company and its customers time and money.

Focusing on and developing advanced, nuanced, and quick-reaction problem-solving skills might even help insulate, to a degree, some knowledge-based professionals from the most disruptive effects of artificial intelligence and automation technologies.

The MIT Sloan Management Review found the most likely skills to be automated are those that can be “standardized and codified.” The research noted that tasks requiring physical or real-time resolution typically had lower automation rates. That was due to the fact that creating tools that can handle the unpredictability of those tasks is either too expensive, involves too much work, or may not yet be technologically achievable.

Problem-solving is a skill that can be practiced and honed. There is a wide array of literature and coursework available for learning established methods of problem-solving, with specialties in topics like parallel thinking, decomposition, research, and analysis. Even practicing word and logic puzzles as a leisure activity can help hone problem-solving skills.

A COMPLETE GUIDE TO RESOURCE ALLOCATION Understand the ins and outs of resource allocation to maximize productivity and efficiency with this handy guide.

13. Electrical engineers

12. transportation, storage, and distribution managers, 11. computer and information systems managers, 10. architectural and engineering managers, 9. k-12 education administrators, 8. natural sciences managers, 7. software developers, 6. physicists, 5. chief executives, 4. nurse practitioners, 3. personal financial advisors, 1. podiatrists, enhance your problem-solving skills and boost your management efficiency with clickup.

Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 51.7%
Nationwide employment : 186,020 (1.32 per 1,000 jobs)

Electrical engineers design, develop, test, and maintain electrical systems and components. They may identify problems, design circuitry and other parts, and create prototypes to test their solutions. And they can encounter surprises.

For instance, in 1945, Percy Lebaron Spencer, an electrical engineer for Raytheon, was working on radar equipment and noticed a candy bar in his pocket melted. Applying critical thinking and problem-solving skills, he devised a series of tests, observations, and experiments, ultimately inventing the microwave oven.

Hands-on experience and professional development help electrical engineers develop their analytical and critical thinking skills. Participating in professional associations can also assist in the development of their communication and teamwork abilities, allowing them to collaborate effectively with their colleagues and clients .

Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 52.6%
Nationwide employment : 144,640 (1.027 per 1,000 jobs)

Transportation, storage, and distribution managers are involved in the planning, directing, and coordinating of transportation, storage, and distribution activities.

These logistics professionals must organize and manage the work of subordinates, effectively use analytical and inventory software, evaluate and act on data and reports, and communicate and collaborate with other departments.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a nonstop series of problems to solve for transportation, storage, and distribution managers, who have had to deal with demand spikes, driver shortages, and soaring warehouse costs. Now rising inflation and cooling demand are going to send their own series of problems through the pipeline in the reverse direction.

Staying on top of important data, such as changing regulations, weather, software innovations, and tariffs are some of the steps transportation, storage, and distribution managers take to be better prepared to problem-solve. Obtaining certificates and pursuing coursework in supply chain management and other related fields of study are also beneficial for practicing and developing key problem-solving skills.

Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 54.0%
Nationwide employment : 485,190 (3.444 per 1,000 jobs)

Computer and information systems managers are responsible for the planning and coordinating of computer-related activities within their organization. High levels of technical expertise, as well as people management skills, are required to be effective.

Duties for computer and information systems managers can include managing all of the organization’s personnel who are relevant to its computer systems, as well as consulting with end users and stakeholders to ensure computing plans align with organizational goals.

Staying current with the latest research and technology is an important step in preparation for becoming a better problem-solver as a computer and information system manager so that you are up to speed on current best practices when it is time to make or advise a decision.

Another way to improve problem-solving skills is to hold routine meetings and solicit team feedback as a way to work on communication skills and ensure expectations and issues are being clearly understood and acted on.

Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 54.6%
Nationwide employment : 187,100 (1.328 per 1,000 jobs)

Architectural and engineering managers plan, direct, and coordinate activities in the fields of architecture and engineering, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook . For instance, they might oversee a construction and renovation project, develop and present project proposals and bids, and oversee the recruiting of staff for design and engineering teams.

Architectural and engineering managers need to be able to effectively lead and inspire their teams. They must also strictly adhere to project deadlines and exhibit superior written and oral communication skills, all of which require advanced problem-solving abilities.

To be better prepared as a problem-solver, architectural and engineering managers attend design showcases to examine the work of other professionals, take advantage of continuing education opportunities, and seize opportunities to gain further field experience.

Bonus: Project Management Software for Engineering

SOFTWARE FOR MANAGING YOUR ARCHITECTURAL PROJECTS Discover the right project management software for architects to ensure smooth operation of your projects.

Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 54.8%
Nationwide employment : 274,710 (1.95 per 1,000 jobs)

K-12 education administrators plan, direct, and coordinate the academic, administrative, or auxiliary activities of kindergarten, elementary, and secondary schools, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Whether managing teachers, helping students navigate curriculum challenges, or overseeing facility improvements, elementary administrators are constantly solving problems. And they’re expected to create “accurate, rapid, effective and accepted solutions,” depending on their visions “and school development programs,” according to a 2010 study .

Being an effective school administrator requires practice in building positive relationships, putting colleagues and families first, and using strategies to diffuse conflict and stressful situations.

Participating in research opportunities, attending seminars and classes, and joining professional educational groups are all ways to stay current with the latest problem-solving tools and trends in the field.

Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 56.4%
Nationwide employment : 74,760 (0.531 per 1,000 jobs)

Natural sciences managers are involved in supervising the work of scientists, including chemists, physicists, and biologists, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook. These workers are in charge of activities that relate to research and development and coordinate testing, quality control, and production.

Natural sciences managers must use their highly developed research and scientific observation skills, and harness those of their direct reports, to uncover answers to complex technical issues.

Workers in this role are expected to perform functions like developing strategies and research projects; interviewing, hiring, and directing scientists, technicians, and support personnel; and administrative duties.

Because science moves so rapidly, natural science managers must constantly read and stay current with the latest developments so they have the knowledge and latest best practices to apply to their work. Attending health fairs, publishing papers, and working with a scientific mentor are some ways natural sciences managers build the skills and knowledge needed to be successful problem-solvers.

Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 58.4%
Nationwide employment : 1,364,180 (9.683 per 1,000 jobs)

Software developers are in charge of analyzing users’ needs and designing and developing software to meet those needs, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook. They design every part of an application or system and coordinate how each will work together.

Computer science itself is the study of problem-solving, so problem-solving skills are baked into all aspects of being a software developer. When designing and implementing code, troubleshooting and bug squashing, and communicating accurately and effectively within and between teams, software developers are problem-solving mavens.

Software developers hone their problem-solving skills through on-the-job experience, obtaining additional certifications and credentials, and staying current with rapid industry developments. Outside of their core job functions, they might contribute code to open source projects, participate in coding challenges and hackathons, or volunteer their time with nonprofit groups focused on building software solutions to civic challenges, such as Code for America.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT AGILE Explore this hub of articles, guides and blueprints to understand Agile methodologies for software teams .

Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 60.3%
Nationwide employment : 20,020 (0.142 per 1,000 jobs)

Physicists are scientists who study the interactions of matter and energy. Whether tackling climate change, hunting for new subatomic particles, or figuring out how to make a chocolate cake mix rise faster, physicists are solving problems all around us.

From the epic to the everyday, physicists use step-by-step approaches, apply past solutions to new problems, diagram procedures, and verify results.

Physicists prepare themselves to be problem-solvers by drilling into the fundamentals of their field, learning and practicing problem-solving strategies, and participating in professional organizations. They may also tackle physics word problems and brain teasers in their free time and then share solutions and strategies with colleagues.

Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 61.8%
Nationwide employment : 200,480 (1.423 per 1,000 jobs)

Top executives plan strategies and policies to ensure an organization meets its goals, according to the BLS, which includes coordinating and directing the company and organization activities.

Recognizing gaps between where an organization is and its goals—and devising and implementing solutions, often in real time—is core to the role of an executive.

Putting structures in place to develop new products, overcoming budget shortfalls, keeping pace with the competition, navigating regulations, and managing the personalities and career growth of staff are all types of problems executives need to solve.

Executives take training and development programs to improve their problem-solving and management skills. They may volunteer their management expertise to a nonprofit or become a mentor to a more junior manager. Executives attend conferences and workshops and stay current on their industry news to expand their skills, including problem-solving.

Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 62.4%
Nationwide employment : 234,690 (1.666 per 1,000 jobs)

Nurse practitioners diagnose and treat acute, episodic, or chronic illness, independently or as part of a health care team, according to the BLS, and may focus on health promotion and disease prevention. They may be involved with ordering, performing, or interpreting lab work and X-rays, and can prescribe medication.

Nurses are called upon to apply their diverse knowledge to handle various situations during their shifts in a constantly changing environment. They might apply a solution from one set of patients to another.

For example, one nurse described how a pain medication that worked for diabetic patients with neuropathy helped an amputation patient suffering from deep nerve pain who wasn’t responding well to traditional opioids.

Health care providers who stay on top of the most recent research report better patient outcomes. Nurse practitioners can use an evidence-based approach to apply a systematic process to review, analyze, and translate to the real world the latest health care and scientific evidence. Training, conferences, and social media also provide other sources of information to sharpen skills and knowledge.

Personal financial advisor coaching clients

Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 67.1%
Nationwide employment : 263,030 (1.867 per 1,000 jobs)

Personal financial advisors assess their clients’ financial needs and advise them on investment decisions and navigating tax laws and insurance, according to the BLS. They help their clients with short- and long-term goals, like saving for college and retirement.

Saving for retirement in an environment with rising interest rates, coping with soaring college costs, and deciding what to do with the proceeds of a house sale are some of the issues that might come up for the clients of a personal financial advisor, which require tailored solutions.

In each case, personal financial advisors define their client’s problems, identify the causes, explore and decide on solutions , and implement them, according to Vesticor Advisors Managing Director Michael Sciortino.

Certifications—like certified financial planner, chartered financial analyst, or chartered financial consultant—or professional development courses can improve personal financial advisors’ hard skills and provide structured opportunities to learn and apply proven problem-solving strategies.

Participating in a pro bono program through a professional organization allows an advisor to apply their knowledge to help individuals, families, and communities in need while getting additional opportunities to practice tackling new and pressing problems.

Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 68.1%
Nationwide employment : 681,010 (4.834 per 1,000 jobs)

Advising and representing individuals, businesses, and government agencies on legal issues and disputes are some of the main obligations of lawyers.

Lawyers must research and analyze legal problems and provide advice to their clients. They evaluate all manner of legal decisions—such as weighing the pros and cons of filing for a judgment versus offering a settlement in a case—negotiate contracts, and respond to cease and desist letters. Problem-solving is so key to the legal profession that it was placed at the top of an American Bar Association’s report on fundamental skills for lawyers, even before legal analysis.

Lawyers prepare to be problem-solvers by being active listeners, zeroing in on the details of a case, and reading up on the latest cases and legal strategies. Specialized problem-solving workshops, exercises, role-plays, and simulations— sometimes organized through professional societies —are other ways lawyers can develop their skills.

Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 85.5%
Nationwide employment : 8,840 (0.063 per 1,000 jobs)

Podiatrists provide medical and surgical care for people with foot, ankle, and lower leg problems, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Patients come to their podiatrists presenting problems such as heel pain, bunions, ingrown toenails, and issues with gait and walking. Podiatrists listen to and diagnose the issue and prescribe solutions depending on what’s needed, such as orthotics, medical creams, or physical therapy.

Podiatrists sharpen their problem-solving skills by practicing and learning new and established methodologies for diagnosis and attending training sessions and conferences. They also practice regularly and seek feedback from patients and colleagues to improve their techniques and patient outcomes.

In today’s fast-paced business world, being an effective problem-solver is crucial for any role, especially management or leadership. Fortunately, there are various tools available to help you streamline your work and manage your tasks efficiently.

ClickUp, in particular, is an exceptional project management tool that can help you stay organized and achieve your goals. With ClickUp, you can easily track your progress, collaborate with your team members, and take corrective action whenever necessary.

Give ClickUp a try for free and take your management efficiency to the next level!

Guest Writer: Ben Popken

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Eggcellent Work

25 in-demand jobs that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills .

One of the most important competencies employers seek for a new hire is critical thinking/problem solving. According to a NACE job outlook survey, employers found their new hires were actually more proficient in competencies other than critical thinking in jobs that require problem solving.

Survey respondents rated the importance of critical thinking/problem solving as 4.62 on a scale of 5, with teamwork and professionalism ranking second and third at 4.556 and 4.46 respectively.

As a percentage, 99.2% of employers surveyed considered critical thinking as an essential skill, but rated just over half (55.8%) of their employees as proficient.

To become more proficient in critical thinking , here’s some advice on Indeed.com and other resources :

Only accept new information after evaluating it thoroughly. Focus on primary sources and look for objective, quantifiable truth.
In considering the source and any underlying agendas and biases/motivation that may be at the foundation.
Ask the right questions , and know what kind of answers you are looking for.
Learn the art of active listening with eye contact and appropriate body language.
Save your follow-up questions for when the speaker is finished, and say thanks for the speaker’s time and attention.
The Ultimate Guide To Critical Thinking
Is Critical Thinking A Soft Skill Or Hard Skill?
5 Creative and Critical Thinking Examples In Workplace
10 Best Books On Critical Thinking And Problem Solving
12 Common Barriers To Critical Thinking (And How To Overcome Them)

Applying for jobs that require critical and creative thinking

So, when applying for jobs that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills, your résumé and cover letter should highlight the following:

Your observation skills—Observation skills are important to critical thinking, because observation is the way you receive and objectively process information.
How well you can evaluate and analyze—That includes your skill to review information and draw educated inferences through technical review.
How well you communicate—When you can clearly communicate your strategies and ideas, you can perform better at your job and strengthen your team.
Your problem-solving skills—When you can objectively identify a problem or issue, you can arrive at solutions and outcomes.

So, with critical thinking and problem-solving skills, you will be in high demand in the post-pandemic economic recovery. There are thousands of jobs out there, and most require critical thinkers, who are ready to embark on a fulfilling career with great pay and opportunities for growth and advancement.

Read More: How To List Skills That I Taught Myself On Resume

A sampling of 25 jobs that require critical thinking and problem solving

The following is a sampling of jobs that require critical thinking listed in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook :

In-Demand Jobs that require critical thinking that have undergone “much faster than average” growth rate (The average rate of growth for all occupations is 8%):

Nurse practitioners.

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 393,300/45%

Entry-level education required: Master’s Degree

2021 Median pay: $123,780

Critical thinking skill for nurse practitioners: Working in a variety of healthcare settings, nurse practitioners provide a full range of health care in settings from hospital wards to local clinics. This is one of those high-stress jobs that require critical thinking.

Home health and personal care aides

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 4,600,600/33%

Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent

2021 Median pay: $29,430

Critical thinking skill for home health and personal care aides: Monitor the health condition of people with chronic illness or disabilities and assist them with their daily activities.

Statisticians

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 59,800/33%.

2021 Median pay: $95,280

Critical thinking skill for statisticians: Analyze data and use computational techniques to solve problems. This is another one of the low-stress jobs for problem solvers.

Logisticians

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 247,400/30%

Entry-level education required: Bachelor’s Degree

2021 Median pay: $77,030

Critical thinking skill for logisticians: Analyze, coordinate, and suggest improvements in an organization’s supply chain. This is an example of a group of low-stress jobs for problem solvers.

T our and travel guides

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 56,800/29%

Entry-level education required: High School Diploma or Equivalent

2021 Median pay: $29,780

Critical thinking skill for tour and travel guides: Plan, organize, and arrange tailored vacation plans and sightseeing tours for clients.

Coaches and scouts

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 313,800/26%

2021 Median pay: $38,970

Critical thinking skill for coaches and scouts: Evaluate and teach amateur or pro athletes the skills they need to succeed and improve on past team performance.

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 34,500/24%

2021 Median Pay: $105,900

Critical thinking skill for actuaries: Use math and statistics to analyze risks and economic costs. Put this job in the category of best jobs for over-thinkers.

Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 402,600/23%

2021 Median pay: $48,520

Critical thinking skill for substance abuse counselors: Diagnose substance abuse, behavioral disorders, and mental health problems and counsel patients accordingly.

Athletic trainers

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 37,000/23%

2021 Median pay: $498,420

Critical thinking skill for athletic trainers: Prevent, diagnose, and treat muscle and bone injuries and illnesses.

Software developers and software quality assurance analysts and testers

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 2,257,400/22%

2021 Median pay: $110,140

Critical thinking skill for software developers, etc.: Identify problems with software applications and report/correct defects.

Phlebotomists

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 158,400/22%

Entry-level education required: Postsecondary nondegree

2021 Median pay: $37,800

Critical thinking skill for phlebotomists: Draw blood from patients with attention to detail and empathy towards patients who may be uncomfortable.

Broadcast technicians

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 168,300/21%

Entry-level education required: Associates Degree

2021 Median pay: $49,050

Critical thinking skill for broadcast technicians: Set up, operate, maintain, and troubleshoot equipment for media programs .

Market research analysts and marketing specialists

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 904,500/22%

2021 Median pay: $63,920

Critical thinking skill for market research analysts: Study market conditions and examine potential sales and service opportunities and upgrades.

Preschool teachers, except special education

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 556,000/18%

Entry-level education required: Associates and Bachelor’s Degrees

2021 Median pay: $30,210

Critical thinking skill for preschool teachers: Attend to the needs of younger children prior to their entering kindergarten.

Social and human service assistants

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 487,100/17%

Entry-level education required: High School Diploma or equivalent

2021 Median pay: $37,610

Critical thinking skill for social and human service assistants: Provide clients with tailored services to assist people in therapy or rehabilitation settings.

Financial managers

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 799,900/17%

2021 Median pay: $131,710

Critical thinking skill for financial managers: Create detailed financial reports and plan for the organization’s long-term financial goals.

Audiologists

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 15,800/16%

Entry-level education required: Doctoral or professional Degree

Number of jobs projected through 2030

2021 Median pay: $78,950

Critical thinking skill for audiologists: Diagnose, manage, and treat patients experiencing hearing and balance problems.

In-Demand Jobs with a “faster than average” growth rate and jobs that require creativity and problem solving

Veterinarians.

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 101,300/17%

Entry-level education required: Doctoral or professional degree

2021 Median pay: $100,370

Critical thinking skills for veterinarians: diagnose, treat, and provide care for animals.

The foregoing is but a sample of high-demand jobs that require critical thinking. In fact, most jobs that require critical thinking and problem solving are in high demand.

Management analysts

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 1,032,000/14%

Entry-level education required: Bachelor’s degree

2021 Median pay: $93,000

Critical thinking skill for management analysts: Recommend ways for an organization to improve its operation and efficiency.

Education administrators, all other

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 56,900/13%

2021 Median pay: $90,560

Critical thinking skill for education administrators: Manage, administer, and prepare budgets and education syllabi in a variety of educational settings.

Postsecondary Teachers

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 1,433,600/12%

Entry-level education required: Master’s Degree or Ph.D.

2021 Median pay: $79,640

Critical thinking skill for postsecondary teachers: Prepare class syllabi and lesson plans with assessment methods to test student learning.

Aircraft mechanics and service technicians

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 168,700/11%

Entry-level education required: On-the-job training and FAA approved technician training programs.

2021 Median pay: $65,550

Critical thinking skill for aircraft mechanics: Troubleshoot, repair, and perform scheduled maintenance on aircraft engines and supporting equipment.

Computer and information systems managers

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 534,700/11%

2021 Median pay: $159,010

Critical thinking skill for computer systems manager: Plan, coordinate, and oversee IT related activities in a variety of organizations.

Construction managers

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 499,400/11%

2021 Median pay: $98,890

Critical thinking skill for construction managers: Coordinate, plan, budget, and oversee construction projects from inception to completion.

Dietitians and nutritionists

Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 73,000/11%

2021 Median pay: $61,650

Critical thinking skill for dietitians: Plan and implement food service and nutritional programs in a variety of settings .

How To Promote Critical Thinking In The Workplace
Critical Thinking vs Problem Solving: What’s the Difference?
What Is The Role Of Communication In Critical Thinking?
Brainstorming: Techniques Used To Boost Critical Thinking and Creativity
11 Principles Of Critical Thinking
21 High-paying Jobs Nobody Wants
The Truth About Working in Finance (And the Common Misconceptions)

Jenny Palmer

Founder of Eggcellentwork.com. With over 20 years of experience in HR and various roles in corporate world, Jenny shares tips and advice to help professionals advance in their careers. Her blog is a go-to resource for anyone looking to improve their skills, land their dream job, or make a career change.

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How to Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills (and Show Them Off in Your Job Hunt)

group of colleagues sitting around a table at the office having a discussion

Problem-solving skills are critical for any career path—no matter where you work or what job you have, you’ll face problems big and small all the time. If you want to succeed in your career, being able to effectively navigate (and solve!) those problems is a must. And if you’re on the job hunt, showcasing your problem-solving skills can help you land your dream gig.

But what, exactly, are problem-solving skills? What can you do to improve them? And if you’re looking for a new position, how can you show off your problem-solving skills during your job search to help you land an awesome job?

Consider this your guide to all things problem-solving. Let’s get started.

What Are Problem-Solving Skills and Why Are They Important?

“Problem-solving skills are skills that allow you to identify and define a situation that needs changing,” says Doug Noll , an attorney and adjunct faculty member at the Straus Institute of Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine University’s Caruso School of Law, where he teaches graduate-level classes in decision-making and problem-solving. Once you identify what needs changing, problem-solving skills also enable you to “identify the best outcomes, define potential processes for achieving the best outcomes, and evaluate how the process achieved (or failed to achieve) the desired outcome,” he says. “Every job imaginable involves problem-solving.”

Being able to effectively solve problems can help you succeed and impress, regardless of what kind of job you have or career you plan to pursue. “A person who sorts out problems and makes decisions—or at least brings potential solutions to the table—is seen as someone who can get things done,” says organizational consultant Irial O’Farrell , author of the upcoming book The Manager’s Dilemma: How to Empower Your Team’s Problem Solving . “This makes managers’ lives easier—and managers notice people who make their lives easier, who get things done, and who don’t have to be told [what to do] the whole time. In turn, opportunities are put their way, enhancing their career.”

And the further you progress in your career, the more important those skills become, Noll says. “As you rise in an organization, the problems become more complex, ambiguous, uncertain, and risky. Only people able to solve these types of problems are promoted.” So as you hone your problem-solving skills, you become more valuable to any organization—and will be able to climb the ladder more easily as a result.

The 6 Steps of Problem-Solving—and the Skills You Need for Each One

Problem-solving is a process. And, like any process, there are certain steps you need to take in order to get to the finish line:

Step #1: Identify and Assess the Problem

You can’t solve a problem if you don’t know what the problem is. So “the first step is to recognize that an issue—or potential issue—exists,” O’Farrell says. In order to do that, you’ll need “a certain amount of knowledge or awareness of what should be happening as compared to what is actually happening.”

Once you recognize there’s a problem, you’ll need to evaluate its potential impact. “Is this going to affect three people or 203 people? Is this going to cost us $10 or $100,000? How material is this issue?” O’Farrell says. “Being able to evaluate the size, impact, and costs [of a problem] is a key skill here.”

When you understand the scope of the problem, you’ll have a better idea of what you’re dealing with—and will be able to come up with appropriate, relevant solutions as a result.

Skills needed during this step of the problem-solving process include:

Attention to detail
Data collection
Forecasting

Step #2: Get to the Source of the Problem

Once you know what the problem is (and what its potential impact might be), it’s time to figure out where the problem is coming from or why it’s happening—as identifying the source of the problem will give you key insights into how to fix it.

“Often we notice a problem because of its symptoms, rather than its root cause. As a result, it is common to focus on resolving the symptoms, rather than what is causing the symptoms,” O’Farrell says. But “by understanding the root causes, a better, longer-term solution can be identified.”

There are a variety of techniques to help you dig deeper and understand what’s causing the problem at hand. For example, a 5 Whys analysis could help you uncover the root cause of a problem by having you ask “Why?” five times in a row, with each “Why?” building off the previous answer. Or you might try the fishbone diagram —also known as a cause-and-effect analysis—which encourages looking at the different categories that could be causing a problem and brainstorming potential root causes within each of those categories.

During this stage of the problem-solving process, curiosity is key; you’ll need it to explore all the different factors that could be contributing to the problem.

Analysis (including root-cause analysis)
Brainstorming
Critical thinking

Step #3: Brainstorm Potential Solutions

Once you’ve identified the problem (and the root of the problem), “the next step is to brainstorm potential options that will resolve it,” O’Farrell says.

How much brainstorming you’ll need to do will depend on the problem you’re dealing with. “If it’s a fairly small, straightforward issue, then identifying a few options might be sufficient,” O’Farrell says. Especially for a bigger issue, “Taking some time to think beyond the obvious might lead to a better and longer-term solution.”

The size and scope of the problem will also determine who needs to be involved in this step. In some cases, you may be able to brainstorm solutions yourself. But if you’re dealing with a larger, more complex issue, getting more people involved (and choosing the right people, i.e. those best equipped to handle the problem) is important. You’ll need to be able to judge what kind of problem it is and who to bring in to help and lead a productive brainstorming session.

One of the most important skills you’ll draw on at this stage is creativity. The more creative you are during your brainstorm, the more (and better) potential solutions you’ll be able to come up with—and the more likely one of those solutions will be the solution you’re looking for.

Skills you might need during this step of the problem-solving process include:

Communication
Meeting facilitation

Step #4: Evaluate Solutions

Once you have a list of potential solutions from your brainstorming session, the next step is to examine each one carefully and narrow down your list so only the best solutions remain.

In order to succeed during this stage of the problem-solving process, you’ll need to be able to dig into each potential solution and evaluate how viable it is. You may make a pros and cons list for each potential solution, talk through the benefits and drawbacks with your team, and then narrow down your options to the solutions that have the most potential upsides.

All the work you put into the problem-solving process up to this point will also come in handy as you’re evaluating which of your potential solutions might ultimately be the most effective. “Having a strong understanding of what the issue is, why it’s an issue, and what is causing it helps in being able to determine if each of the solutions will sort the issue out,” O’Farrell says.

Fact-checking
Prioritization

Step #5: Choose the Best Solution

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential solutions—and weighed the pros and cons of each—it’s time for you (or your supervisor or another decision-maker) to choose one.

“Depending on the type and impact of the issue and your role and authority, you may be the one making the decision or you may be presenting the issue and potential solutions to your boss,” O’Farrell says.

Knowing who should make the call is a key part of this step; if the problem is complex or will have a major impact on your organization that goes beyond your level of responsibility, it’s probably best to bring potential solutions to your boss and/or other stakeholders—and give them the final say.

Decision-making
Public speaking

Step #6: Implement the Decision and Reflect on the Outcome

Choosing a solution in and of itself doesn’t fix anything. You need to actually implement that solution—and do it well. That means developing a plan and coordinating with other key players in your organization to put that plan into action—which requires a host of skills (such as communication, collaboration, and project management).

Before you can hang up your problem-solving hat, you’ll also need to “go back and evaluate if the solution sorted out the issue” or if it caused any unintended consequences, O’Farrell says.

For example, let’s say your organization has a problem with taking too long to address customer service requests—and you rolled out a new ticket management system in order to deal with the issue. Once you implement that new system, you’ll want to follow up to make sure it’s allowing your customer service reps to deal with requests faster and hasn’t caused any new, different, or unexpected issues (for example, tickets getting lost in the queue or customers being less satisfied with the quality of support they received).

Adaptability
Collaboration
Data analysis
Goal setting
Organization
Project management
Project planning
Time management

How to Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills

Clearly, solving problems is a complex process—and it’s a process you need to nail if you want to grow in your career. But how can you improve your problem-solving skills so they can help you thrive in your career?

Put on your student hat. One of the best ways to improve here is to study how to effectively solve problems. “Read case studies of complex problems,” Noll says. (For example, if you want to land a marketing job, you might search for case studies on how other companies were able to increase their qualified leads or drive more traffic to their website.) Noll also suggests reading books about different problem-solving techniques—or, if you really want to level up your skills, investing in a general course in critical thinking and problem-solving. “A good course should teach you how to think,” he says—and critical thinking plays a huge role in problem-solving.
Try different brainstorming techniques. If you want to be a better problem solver, try pushing yourself to think outside of the box. “Learning some brainstorming techniques and expanding your thinking beyond the obvious solutions is also a way to make your problem-solving skills stand out,” O’Farrell says. Brainstorming techniques like brainwriting (a nonverbal brainstorming technique for teams) or rapid ideation (which pushes you to come up with as many ideas as possible in a short time frame) can help spark creative thinking—and help you become a more creative problem solver in the process.
Ask expert problem-solvers how they solve problems. People in your professional (or personal!) life who excel at solving problems can be a great resource for leveling up your own problem-solving skills. “Talk to senior mentors about how they approached complex problems,” Noll says. “Get them to talk about their failures and mistakes,” he says, not just their successes. Seeing how other people solve problems and what they’ve learned from their experiences can help you approach problems in a different way and can make you a more versatile problem solver.
Practice, practice, practice. Like with anything else, if you want to improve your problem-solving skills, you need to practice solving problems. “Most people jump to the easy, intuitive answer rather than [carefully thinking] through the problem,” O’Farrell says. So next time you’re confronted with a problem, rather than jump to a hasty solution, take your time to go through the entire problem-solving process. And if you don’t have any real problems to deal with? Attempting to solve hypothetical problems can be just as helpful.

How to Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills During the Job Search

Recruiters and hiring managers are looking for people with problem-solving skills who can help them, their team, and their company achieve their goals even in the face of obstacles and setbacks. So if you want to stand out, nail the interview, and score the job, you’ll need to showcase your problem-solving skills throughout your job search.

Here are a few ways to show off your problem-solving skills:

On a Resume

You can show potential employers that you’re a problem solver right on your resume. As you write your bullets for each past job and other experiences, “Incorporate one main challenge that you had to overcome, and give a brief synopsis of how you approached it, what the solution was and, most importantly, what the positive outcome was,” O’Farrell says.

For example, let’s say you’re a marketing manager and you had to figure out a way to launch a new product with a minimal budget. Under your current role, you might include a bullet point that says:

Launched new sunscreen line across digital and traditional channels with <$10,000 budget by exploring up-and-coming distribution channels and negotiating wide-scale distribution agreements, bringing in $60,000 in new product sales within 90 days of launch

O’Farrell also recommends using action verbs (like “ analyze,” “evaluate,” or “identify”) to call out your problem-solving skills on a resume.

In a Cover Letter

In your cover letter, you’ll have more room and flexibility to showcase your problem-solving skills—and you should definitely take advantage of the opportunity.

Noll suggests using your cover letter to tell a quick story (think two to three sentences) about when and how you’ve solved a relevant problem. In your story, you want to include:

What the problem was
How you approached it/came to a solution
What the outcomes of your problem-solving were
What lessons you learned

Another strategy is to highlight how you would use your problem-solving skills within the context of the role you’re applying for. “I’d recommend reviewing the job description and identifying what types of problems you might have to deal with in the role,” O’Farrell says. Then you can speak directly to how you might approach them.

For example, let’s say you’re applying for an executive assistant position that requires extensive scheduling and calendar management for an exec who is often traveling for business. In that situation, you might explain how you’d solve the problem of scheduling while the exec is out of office (for example, by developing an appointment approval system that allows the exec to approve all appointment requests remotely, with a plan for how to notify the exec of appointment requests that need immediate attention).

During Interviews

The interview process offers the best opportunity for your problem-solving skills to shine, so you’ll want to come prepared.

“In preparation for the interview, select two to three situations where you used your problem-solving skills,” O’Farrell says. That way, when the interviewer asks you for examples of problems you’ve faced in your career—and how you solved them—you’ll have relevant stories ready. If you’re not sure how to tell your story effectively, the STAR method (which breaks down your story into four parts: S ituation, T ask, A ction, and R esult) can be helpful.

As a potential candidate, it’s also important to ask how you’ll need to use your skills on the job, Noll says. So you might ask the interviewers to share some of the issues or problems they’re hoping to solve by filling this position.

And if they turn around and ask you how you’d solve those problems? Don’t panic! If you have a story of a similar problem you’ve solved in the past, this is a great opportunity to share it. Otherwise, just talk through how you would approach it. Remember, the interviewers don’t expect you to come up with detailed solutions for problems their company is facing on the spot; they just want to get a sense of how you would begin to think about those problems if you were hired.

The Top 5 Problem-Solving Skills Employers Want In 2024

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Problem-solving is one of the top resume skills that employers believe will grow in importance over the next five years (and beyond), according to the Future of Jobs report by the World Economic Forum.

“Research in the past few years points to problem-solving skills as being crucial to business success. Many employers now put these ahead of technical skills,” says John Kleeman , founder of the online assessment platform Questionmark.

What does this mean for you, the job seeker?

It means that it’s more important than ever to show employers that you can identify and solve problems quickly and efficiently, whether you’re applying to an entry-level job or a senior executive position.

What are problem-solving skills, why are problem-solving skills important, how to highlight problem-solving skills on a resume, how to highlight problem-solving skills in a job interview, how to develop and improve your problem-solving skills.

Use Jobscan’s free ATS-friendly resume templates and start building your resume that gets noticed by recruiters!

Problem-solving is a complex skill. It involves critical thinking , decision-making, creativity, and information processing.

Effective problem-solvers use a systematic approach that allows them to break down difficult problems into smaller, more manageable parts.

In its simplest form, problem-solving involves three basic steps:

Step 1 – Identify the problem. This may seem obvious, but it is important to take the time to really understand what the problem is before trying to solve it.

This can involve talking to people who are affected by the problem, doing research, or consulting experts in the field.

Step 2 – Generate a list of possible solutions. Consider how effective each solution would be and whether or not it is feasible to implement.

Once you have narrowed down the list of possible solutions, you can then start testing out the most promising ones.

Step 3 – Implement the solution . This step also includes determining what resources are needed to put the solution into action, such as money, personnel, or technology.

Ultimately, the goal is to come up with the most effective, practical solution that will address both the immediate issue and any underlying causes.

By following these three steps, you should be able to easily identify and solve problems quickly and efficiently!

The top 5 problem-solving skills to put on your resume

Employees who have good problem-solving skills are vital for the successful functioning of any business.

But what specific skills are employers looking for?

Here are five of the most important problem-solving skills that businesses want their employees to have.

1) Creativity

“ Problems are nothing but wake-up calls for creativity. ” –Gerhard Gschwandtner

Creativity allows us to examine a problem from multiple perspectives, use outside-the-box thinking, and come up with innovative solutions.

By embracing creativity, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and make our problem-solving efforts more effective.

How to use creativity in the workplace

Create processes to improve workflow and reduce costs.
Brainstorm ideas to develop new products or services for a company.
Develop strategies to increase customer loyalty and satisfaction.
Leverage technology to create more efficient processes and systems.
Analyze data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.

2) Research

“ Research is formalized curiosity. It is poking and prying with a purpose .” – Zora Neale Hurston

Research skills are essential when resolving complex problems.

Only by gathering and analyzing data from multiple sources can we begin to assess the problem and determine the most appropriate solutions accurately.

How to use research in the workplace

Identify new markets or customer segments to target.
Gather information about competitors and their products/services.
Stay up to date on industry news and developments.
Evaluate potential partners, vendors, or products before purchasing.
Analyze past performance in order to make projections for the future.

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3) Communication

“ Good communication is just as stimulating as black coffee, and just as hard to sleep after .” -Anne Morrow Lindbergh

Once you’ve identified a potential solution to a problem, you need to be able to explain it clearly to others.

This involves both verbal and written communication , as well as the ability to listen carefully and understand the perspective of others.

How to communicate in the workplace

Clarify goals and make sure that everyone is on the same page.
Resolve conflicts quickly and efficiently.
Promote collaboration among team members by fostering trust and respect.
Allow employees to exchange feedback regularly.
Provide recognition and appreciation to team members.

4) Teamwork

“ Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much .” – Helen Keller

Being able to work on a team is an important skill that contributes to effective problem-solving.

When team members work together to tackle complex issues, the best solutions are often found because each individual has a unique perspective and skill set that can contribute to solving the problem.

How to be a team player in the workplace

Foster an environment of open communication, feedback, and growth.
Utilize the strengths of individual team members to achieve a common goal.
Develop trust, respect, and camaraderie among team members.
Promote a culture of accountability and ownership for projects.
Encourage creativity, risk-taking, and an atmosphere of experimentation.

5) Decision Making

“ You cannot make progress without making decisions. ” – Jim Rohn

It’s important to be able to identify problems and analyze possible solutions. Still, at some point, you need to make a decision .

Good decision-makers focus on solving the problem rather than wasting time analyzing all of the available data or endlessly debating which option is best.

How to make decisions in the workplace

Use feedback constructively to make better decisions in the future.
Take risks when necessary while being aware of the potential consequences.
Learn from mistakes and use data to develop better solutions.
Demonstrate confidence and decisiveness when making difficult choices.
Analyze situations based on facts and data, not assumptions or emotions.

Problem-solving is considered a soft skill, or “people” skill.

Soft skills are personal attributes that can be transferred from one job to another and help employees interact more effectively with others in the workplace.

For example, in addition to problem-solving, soft skills include time management , empathy, teamwork, flexibility, and having a positive attitude.

In today’s rapidly changing world, soft skills have become more valuable than ever to employers.

“When we look at today’s workforce,” says Eric Frazer , the author of The Psychology of Top Talent , “there’s definitely been a shift away from just having what I would call ‘tacit knowledge’ and ‘tacit skills’…meaning, you’re just good at what you do.” Instead, “There is a deeper understanding that people have to come first, before performance.”

Problem-solving skills are crucial to the success of any business. Employees face problems every day. How they deal with them can mean the difference between success and failure.

If you can learn to identify and solve problems quickly and effectively, you’ll be an invaluable asset to your team.

It’s essential to highlight your problem-solving skills when writing your resume. Remember, employers are specifically looking for them!

Here are a few things you can do to make your problem-solving skills stand out more:

1. Use action verbs

When describing your skills on a resume, try to use catchy, memorable language that packs a punch.

In particular, try to use action verbs . These are words that describe “doing” – like “riding” a bike or “walking” to school.

The best action words to use on your resume are those that are descriptive and specific . These will paint a more vivid picture of your skills and experience.

For example, instead of writing “ helped solve problems,” you could write “ identified and solved critical issues.”

Other phrases that use strong action verbs are:

Developed creative solutions to complex problems.
Researched and implemented best practices for problem prevention.
Streamlined processes to reduce errors and increase efficiency.

2. Quantify your accomplishments

It’s one thing to say you have strong problem-solving skills, but it’s even better to back it up with hard numbers .

Whenever possible on your resume, include metrics that show just how effective you are at solving problems. For example, “reduced customer complaints by 30%.”

Here are some other ways to show off numbers:

Managed a budget of $200,000 and reduced expenses by 10%.
Achieved a 95% success rate in meeting objectives.
Resolved an average of 100 customer complaints per month.

3. Describe your research skills

Research skills play a key role in solving problems. If you’re good at conducting research and finding relevant information, make sure to include that on your resume.

For example, an office manager could say they “utilized extensive research skills to investigate new methods for streamlining inventory management.”

Here are some more examples:

Compiled statistical data for reports and analysis.
Analyzed research findings to develop creative solutions.
Routinely updated databases with new information.

4. Highlight your creativity

There are many problems that cannot be solved with conventional methods.

If you’re the type of person who is good at thinking outside the box and coming up with creative solutions, make sure to mention that on your resume.

For example, you might say, “suggested new approaches to customer service that increased customer satisfaction.”

More examples include:

Resolved a long-standing issue with our website’s design by implementing a new coding solution.
Generated fresh ideas for product development and marketing campaigns.
Turned a failing project around by coming up with a solution that no one else had thought of.

5. Emphasize your collaboration skills

In many cases, problems can’t be solved by one person working alone.

If you’re good at collaborating with others and working as part of a team, that’s something you should try to highlight on your resume.

For example, a you could highlight your financial analyst skills by saying you “worked cross-functionally to launch an annual industry report.”

Other examples include:

Brought together stakeholders with different objectives and helped them find common ground.
Helped resolved misunderstandings between departments, resulting in a 30% increase in sales.
Facilitated weekly team meetings to ensure consistent communication and successful completion of tasks.

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When interviewers ask about your problem-solving skills, they are looking for specific examples of how you have identified and solved problems in the past.

These problem-solving examples could be from work, from your studies, or even taken from your personal life!

Here are some tips on how to highlight your problem-solving skills in a job interview:

1. Describe your process

When describing how you solved a problem, be sure to include all the steps you took in your explanation. This will show the interviewer that you are systematic and thorough in your approach.

For example, you can highlight your account manager skills by saying something like:

“I began by analyzing our current sales figures and identifying where we were losing customers. I then looked at our marketing strategy and identified areas where we could improve. Finally, I implemented a new marketing strategy and monitored the results closely. This led to a significant increase in sales within six months.”

2. Use problem-solving skills in the interview itself

Some interviewers will ask you to solve a problem on the spot as part of the interview process. This is usually done to assess your analytical and critical thinking skills.

For example, someone applying for a job as a business analyst may be asked to review a company’s financial reports and identify areas of concern.

When solving problems in an interview, be sure to think out loud so the interviewer can understand your thought process.

If you’re not sure of the answer, don’t be afraid to say so. This shows that you’re willing to admit when you don’t know something and are willing to learn.

3. Make connections to responsibilities included in the new job

Be sure to highlight how your problem-solving skills will be relevant to the responsibilities of the position you’re applying for.

For example, if you’re applying for a job as a restaurant server, you might talk about a time when you had to diffuse a difficult customer situation.

If you make connections between your past experiences and the new job, it shows the interviewer that you’re qualified for the position and that you’re excited about the opportunity to use your skills in a new way.

4. Use specific examples and data

When describing how you used your problem-solving skills in the past, mention specific examples and support your claims with data.

This makes your story more convincing and shows that you’re not just making things up.

For example, if you’re claiming that you increased sales, be sure to back it up with sales reports, graphs, or even customer testimonials.

Improving your problem-solving skills can open up a variety of different career opportunities.

Here are some things you can do to strengthen your problem-solving abilities:

1. Be proactive

The first step to solving any problem is to recognize that it exists!

This might seem obvious, but many people choose to ignore problems instead of facing them head-on.

Pay attention to the things that are going wrong in your life and work, and don’t sweep them under the rug.

2. Break down big problems into smaller ones

When you’re faced with a big problem, it can be overwhelming. But if you break the problem down into smaller pieces, it will be much easier to solve.

For example, let’s say you’re trying to lose weight. This is a big goal, but it can be broken down into smaller goals, like eating healthy meals and exercising regularly.

Once you have a plan for each of these smaller goals, you’ll be one step closer to solving the bigger problem.

3. Be open-minded

Being open-minded means that you’re willing to consider all possible solutions, even if they’re not what you were originally thinking.

If you’re closed-minded, you might miss out on the best solution to the problem. So don’t be afraid to try something new.

4. Be persistent

Persistence is another important quality for problem-solvers. If you give up at the first sign of trouble, you’ll never find a solution.

When you’re facing a difficult problem, it’s important to keep trying different things until you find a solution that works.

Don’t give up, and eventually, you’ll find the answer you’re looking for!

5. Ask for help

If you’re having trouble solving a problem, don’t be afraid to ask for help. There’s no shame in admitting that you need assistance.

There are many people who are happy to help others solve their problems. So reach out to your friends, family, or even a professional if you need some guidance.

Developing better problem-solving skills can take some time and effort, but it’s worth it!

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How to List Problem-Solving Skills on a Resume [List Included]

Problem-solving skills are more in-demand than ever.

Employers love candidates with problem-solving skills because, in 99% of cases, they guarantee you're also logical, creative, clear-headed, and a great decision-maker.

But claiming you have organizational skills on your resume is not enough.

To impress recruiters, you've got to prove that you possess them.

This includes understanding which problem-solving skills you possess and adding them to your resume (the right way), among other things.

This is where this article comes in! We put together everything you need to know about problem-solving skills, including:

8 Essential Problem-Solving Skills for Your Resume

How to Add Problem-Solving Skills to Your Resume

Why Are Problem-Solving Skills Important
6 Problem-Solving Steps

Let's dive right in!

8 Problem-Solving Skills for Your Resume

Research shows that problem-solving skills consist of several facets :

Identifying and analyzing a problem
Taking effective actions
Understanding the effect of the decisions
Coming up with creative and novel solutions
Transferring knowledge from one situation to another
Thinking abstractly about problems

As such, there is no single problem-solving skill. Problem-solving includes a set of skills, all of which are equally important in helping your personal and professional life.

Below, we’ll cover the eight most important problem-solving skills that you can also list on your resume to impress recruiters:

#1. Research skills

To properly identify and understand a problem, you need excellent research skills.

Research skills involve being able to gather information from the right sources, reviewing that information in detail to extract the data you need, analyzing the data according to the context, and being able to apply the data to your situation.

#2. Analytical skills

Analytical skills are required throughout the entire process of solving a problem.

In a nutshell, analytical skills refer to being able to analyze a situation in depth and from different perspectives . Specifically, you need analytical skills to achieve all of the following while solving a problem:

Detect patterns
Interpret data
Analyze new information
Reach conclusions based on several factors

#3. Creativity

Being creative means being able to think outside of the box and look at situations and problems inventively.

For most people, creativity is mainly associated with creative industries such as arts and crafts, architecture, design, etc.

In reality, however, creativity is an essential success factor for every job and the data is here to support that. According to this Adobe study , problem-solving (51%) and creativity (47%) have gained the most value in driving salary increases in the last five years.

When it comes to the process of solving a problem, creativity can help you consider more perspectives, think abstractly about problems, and come up with novel solutions that others haven’t thought of before.

#4. Critical thinking skills

Being able to think critically means that you’re good at rationalizing, understanding the connections between ideas or situations, and logically analyzing any given situation.

As such, strong critical thinking skills can help you see beyond what’s at face value, make more informed decisions, and anticipate the outcomes of said decisions.

People who have critical thinking skills share traits such as open-mindedness , cognitive flexibility , skepticism , clarity , and precision .

#5. Decision-making skills

Before coming up with a single action plan to solve a problem, you’ll need to first brainstorm several possible solutions.

After that, you need good decision-making skills to choose the best possible solution. Without decision-making skills, you risk prolonging finding a proper solution or aggravating a problem even more.

#6. Communication skills

With strong communication skills , you’re able to successfully explain the problem to others and propose your solutions. In turn, you can be sure that everyone’s on the same page and that you’re carrying out the action plan accordingly.

Some communication skills required for problem-solving include:

Active listening
Written and verbal communication
Giving and receiving feedback

#7. Collaboration

Problem-solving is rarely a process you carry out alone. More often than not, you need to consult relevant stakeholders, give and receive feedback, and work with a team towards a common goal (i.e. solving the problem).

Well, collaboration entails exactly that - working well with others, cooperatively addressing problems, and putting a group’s goal ahead of personal goals.

Some important collaboration skills that help with problem-solving include:

Conflict resolution
Emotional intelligence

#8. Attention to Detail

Have you ever heard of the expression “the devil’s in the details?”

It means that something may seem simple on the surface, but in fact, the details make it complicated and are likely to cause problems.

Well, if you’re someone who shows great attention to detail, you’re not likely to let details keep you from solving a problem effectively.

Not to mention, being able to spot and understand even the smallest details that make up a problem means you’ll be able to grasp the issue in its entire complexity and come up with even more inventive and workable solutions.

Now that we covered the most important problem-solving skills, we’ll show you how to add them to your resume so that you can stand out from other candidates.

Let us walk you through the process, step-by-step:

#1. Mention Your Problem-Solving Skills on Your Resume Summary

The resume summary is a three or four-sentence paragraph positioned at the top of your resume that includes:

Your profession and years of experience
Your top skills (i.e. hard skills or soft skills)
One or two noteworthy achievements

The goal of the resume summary is to catch the hiring manager’s attention, show them you’re a relevant candidate and get them to go through the rest of your resume in detail.

As such, it’s your first chance to highlight your problem-solving skills effectively. You can either do that by mentioning them among your top skills or by mentioning an achievement that proves you possess a given skill.

In the best-case scenario, you can even do both.

Here is an example of how you can include problem-solving skills in your resume summary:

Behavioral psychologist with 7+ years of experience in the field. Great research, analytical, and communication skills. Over the last eight years, I’ve worked closely with more than 100 patients with different behavioral disorders, helping them improve their personal and professional lives through different treatment methods.

#2. Add the RIGHT Problem-Solving Skills Under Your Soft Skills

Secondly, you should list your problem-solving skills under your resume’s soft skills section .

The listing part is pretty easy - simply create a section titled Skills and write down your problem-solving skills.

There is, however, one caveat:

You don’t want to overkill your skills section by listing every problem-solving skill we covered in this article.

Not only will the hiring manager have trouble believing you possess each and every skill, but there’s also a high chance you don’t even need all those skills to begin with.

To make your skills section as relevant as possile, do the following:

Check the job description. The job description can show you exactly what skills you need for the job. If you’re applying for, say, a software engineering position, you’ll probably be required to have the following problem-solving skills: analytical skills, creativity, attention to detail, and cognitive flexibility.
Identify the skills you possess. Think about which skills you can back up with actual experience from your previous jobs. Only list problem-solving skills that you actually possess and that you can prove you possess on your resume.
Add those skills under your soft skills. Then, add the problem-solving skills that you have and that are required in the job under your resume’s “Soft Skills” section.

#3. Prove Your Problem-Solving Skills In Your Work Experience Section

Finally, you should use the work experience section to prove that you’ve got the problem-solving skills you’ve mentioned throughout your resume.

Anyone can just claim that they’ve got problem-solving skills on their resume - not everyone can back them up with experience.

Here’s what you can do to convey that you possess problem-solving skills and also make your work experience section as impactful as possible:

Tailor your work experience to the job. Only add past jobs that are relevant to the position you are applying for now. If you’re applying for, say, a software engineering position, the hiring manager will be interested in your previous jobs in the field, but probably not too interested in the time you worked as a server at a restaurant.
Focus on your achievements instead of your responsibilities. More often than not, hiring managers know exactly what your responsibilities consisted of in previous jobs. What they want to know is how you made a positive impact with your achievements.
Make your achievements quantifiable. Speaking of achievements, you want to make them as quantifiable as possible. After all “treated ten patients in the course of a year using positive reinforcement” sounds much better than “treated ten patients.”
Use the Laszlo Bock formula . If you’re having trouble phrasing your achievements, the following formula will probably be of help: “Accomplished X as measured by Y doing X.”
Leverage action verbs and keywords. There are hundreds of words and verbs you can use instead of “did,” “accomplished,” etc. The more descriptive you are of your achievements, the more impressive they can sound.

And here’s an example of a project manager describing their problem-solving skills in their work experience section:

Fixed company communication issues by implementing a new project management solution.
Improved team productivity by implementing time-tracking software and doing daily stand-up calls.
Managed to meet all client deliverable deadlines in 2022.

Why Are Problem-Solving Skills Important?

Are you wondering what exactly is it that makes problem-solving skills so important?

After all, there are hundreds of soft skills out there that you can master, improve, or learn how to add to your resume. So it’s normal to wonder “why should I focus on problem-solving?”

Here is why problem-solving skills matter:

They can improve your employability. Problem-solving skills are among the most important skills to employers across a range of occupations. In short, employers are always looking for proactive thinkers who can address professional challenges.
They can help you grow in your career more easily. You’ll be more likely to get promoted if you can come up with creative solutions to the different problems that you’ll face throughout your career.
They can become an essential part of your personal brand . Your current employer, coworkers, and future employers alike will see you as someone creative, reliable, and helpful.
They are related to a range of other valuable skills. When you prove you’re a problem solver, you’re effectively saying you’re attentive to detail, logical, creative, analytical, curious, and other things employers are looking for in their employees.

10 Jobs That Require Problem-Solving Skills

As we’ve already mentioned, problem-solving skills come in handy for practically every job.

Whether you’re a teacher who needs to solve a dispute between peers in your class or a customer representative who needs to help a client, knowing how to go about solving issues is definitely an asset.

That said, some jobs are all about solving problems. In such cases, problem-solving skills are not just a nice addition to have on your resume - they’re crucial to getting hired.

Here are the top 10 jobs requiring problem-solving skills in 2024:

Software engineer
Air-traffic controller
Police officer
Social worker
Psychologist
UX designer

35 Action Verbs You Can Use to Highlight Your Problem-Solving Skills

The language you use to describe your problem-solving skills matters.

Sure, you can use “ solved” to describe how you dealt with a problem throughout your entire resume and risk coming off as repetitive and unimaginative.

Or , you can use any of the following action verbs and keywords and make your problem-solving skills pop out in the eyes of recruiters:

Calculate
Critically think
Draw conclusions
Experiment
Listen/Listen actively

The Problem-Solving Process in 6 Steps

Problem-solving is a methodical process. It consists of certain steps that you always need to take if you want to find a good solution.

The more you understand and practice this process, the better you can get at solving problems.

Below, we cover the six main steps of problem-solving in detail:

#1. Identify the problem

The first step to solving a problem is identifying exactly what’s causing it.

After all, if you’re not focusing on the real underlying issue, you might come up with solutions that don’t fit the problem itself.

Say, for example, that you’re a teacher that’s facing poor class performance. Identifying whether the problem comes from the students’ not studying enough or from your own teaching methods can make a big difference in the solutions you come up with.

It typically happens that the faster you find the root cause of the problem, the easier it is to find a proper solution.

#2. Understand the problem

Once you identify the problem, you’ve got to understand it completely. Here are some questions you can ask to make sure you properly understand a problem:

What is the scale of the problem?
What are its short and long-term effects?
Have you faced something like this before?
Can the problem be solved by dividing it into smaller parts?

The better you understand the problem in its complexity, the more likely you are to come up with effective solutions.

#3. Research the systems that make up the problem

In many cases, solving a problem will be a complex undertaking. See, complex problems are often the result of several different underlying systems that you need to understand to find a dynamic solution.

Let’s take the teacher example from above.

If a certain student is not doing too well and keeps getting poor grades, you might be tempted to go the easy route and simply chastise them and tell them to study more.

This, in a lot of cases, might simply not work because you’re not addressing the root cause of the problem.

The student might, for example, be burned out , unmotivated by the curriculum, or simply struggling with specific topics.

A problem-solving solution that’s more likely to work would be to talk to the student (or their parents), try to understand the reason for their poor grades, and address the root cause behind the problem itself.

#4. Visualize the problem

This may not apply to all situations, but it can definitely come in handy for most.

Drawing a diagram to visualize the situation or your solution to the problem can help you grasp its complexity better - especially if the problem is multi-faceted. Anything from PowerPoint to a piece of white paper can be a good tool to visualize your problem, highlight the problem area, and tackle it more effectively.

#5. Brainstorm solutions

After you’ve done all the above, it’s time to start thinking about solutions.

This is another step of the problem-solving process that’s based on collaboration and effective communication. In the brainstorming phase, you should sit with team members or relevant stakeholders and come up with as many creative ideas and solutions as possible.

This is not where you come up with your most refined, well-thought-out ideas. Instead, it’s where you discuss freely and combine diverse knowledge and analysis of the problem to come up with diverse solutions.

Brainstorming is an essential part of problem-solving that can help you break out of boring or predictable ideas and thinking patterns.

#6. Choose the best answer(s)

This is where decision-making skills come in. With a list of different potential solutions, you can narrow down your options to finally choose the best one.

To reach a solution more easily, take the following into consideration:

Your company’s/organization’s objectives
The budget and the timeframe at your disposal
The success outcomes
Potential risks linked to the solution

Finally, discuss your solutions with relevant stakeholders and team members to gather all the possible feedback that can help you make the best possible decision.

And remember - once you’ve chosen the best possible solution to a problem, your work is far from over. Being a problem solver also includes the following:

Develop and implement an action plan
Monitor the progress of your plan
Make necessary adjustments during the process
Evaluate the outcomes of your solution

Problem-Solving Skills Resume Example

Want a resume that makes your problem-solving skills pop like the above example?

Use one of our tried-and-tested resume templates .

They’re free, modern, and created in collaboration with some of the best HR professionals from around the globe!

Key Takeaways

And that's a wrap on problem-solving skills. By now, you should know everything there is to know on the topic.

Before you go, here are the main points we covered in this article:

Problem-solving skills are a set of soft skills that help you solve problems effectively. They involve critical thinking, analytical skills, creativity, communication skills, and attention to detail.
Problem-solving skills can improve your employability, work performance, and personal brand.
Add your problem-solving skills to your resume summary, under the soft skills section, and in your work history section.
When you’re creating your work history section, make sure to tailor it to the job, focus on your achievements and make them quantifiable, and use action verbs and keywords from the job description.
To get better at solving problems, follow these steps: identify and understand the problem, research the systems that make up the problem, visualize the problem, brainstorm, and choose the best possible solution.
Once that’s done, create an action plan and make sure to monitor its progress as you’re implementing it.

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What Are Problem-Solving Skills? (Examples Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

Problem-solving skills are important not just for work. In the words of Karl Popper , “All life is problem-solving.”

What on earth does that mean? Simply that being alive means facing challenges. With problem-solving skills, you can navigate issues with greater ease, making hard times, well, less hard.

But what are problem-solving skills? How do you know if you have them or not? Why do they matter to your job search? And what should you do if you don’t feel yours are up to snuff? Luckily, we’re about to get into all of that.

If you’re curious about the world of problem-solving skills, here’s what you need to know.

What Are Problem-Solving Skills?

Before we dig into any examples, let’s focus first on an important question: what are problem-solving skills.

To answer that question, let’s start with the barebones basics. According to Merriam-Webster , problem-solving is “the process or act of finding a solution to a problem.” Why does that matter? Well, because it gives you insight into what problem-solving skills are.

Any skill that helps you find solutions to problems can qualify. And that means problem-solving skills aren’t just one capability, but a toolbox filled with soft skills and hard skills that come together during your time of need.

The ability to solve problems is relevant to any part of your life. Whether your writing a grocery list or dealing with a car that won’t start, you’re actually problem-solving.

The same is true at work, too. Most tasks actually involve a degree of problem-solving. Really? Really.

Think about it this way; when you’re given an assignment, you’re being asked, “Can you do this thing?” Doing that thing is the problem.

Then, you have to find a path that lets you accomplish what you need to do. That is problem-solving.

Yes, sometimes what you need to handle isn’t “challenging” in the difficulty sense. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t count.

Besides, some of what you need to do will legitimately be hard. Maybe you’re given a new responsibility, or something goes wrong during a project. When that happens, you’ll have to navigate unfamiliar territory, gather new information, and think outside of the box. That’s problem-solving, too.

That’s why hiring managers favor candidates with problem-solving skills. They make you more effective in your role, increasing the odds that you can find solutions whenever the need arises.

How Are Problem-Solving Skills Relevant to a Job Search?

Alright, you probably have a good idea of what problem-solving skills are. Now, it’s time to talk about why they matter to your job search.

We’ve already touched on one major point: hiring managers prefer candidates with strong problem-solving skills. That alone makes these capabilities a relevant part of the equation. If you don’t show the hiring manager you’ve got what it takes to excel, you may struggle to land a position.

But that isn’t the only reason these skills matter. Problem-solving skills can help you during the entire job search process. After all, what’s a job search but a problem – or a series of problems – that needs an answer.

You need a new job; that’s the core problem you’re solving. But every step is its own unique challenge. Finding an opening that matches your skills, creating a resume that resonates with the hiring manager, nailing the interview, and negotiating a salary … those are all smaller problems that are part of the bigger one.

So, problem-solving skills really are at the core of the job search experience. By having strong capabilities in this area, you may find a new position faster than you’d expect.

Okay, you may be thinking, “If hiring managers prefer candidates with problem-solving skills, which ones are they after? Are certain problem-solving capabilities more important today? Is there something I should be going out of my way to showcase?”

While any related skills are worth highlighting, some may get you further than others. Analysis, research, creativity, collaboration , organization, and decision-making are all biggies. With those skills, you can work through the entire problem-solving process, making them worthwhile additions to your resume.

But that doesn’t mean you have to focus there solely. Don’t shy away from showcasing everything you bring to the table. That way, if a particular hiring manager is looking for a certain capability, you’re more likely to tap on what they’re after.

How to Highlight Problem-Solving Skills for Job Search

At this point, it’s ridiculously clear that problem-solving skills are valuable in the eyes of hiring managers. So, how do you show them that you’ve got all of the capabilities they are after? By using the right approach.

When you’re writing your resume or cover letter , your best bet is to highlight achievements that let you put your problem-solving skills to work. That way, you can “show” the hiring manager you have what it takes.

Showing is always better than telling. Anyone can write down, “I have awesome problem-solving skills.” The thing is, that doesn’t really prove that you do. With a great example, you offer up some context, and that makes a difference.

How do you decide on which skills to highlight on your resume or cover letter? By having a great strategy. With the Tailoring Method , it’s all about relevancy. The technique helps you identify skills that matter to that particular hiring manager, allowing you to speak directly to their needs.

Plus, you can use the Tailoring Method when you answer job interview questions . With that approach, you’re making sure those responses are on-point, too.

But when do you talk about your problem-solving capabilities during an interview? Well, there’s a good chance you’ll get asked problem-solving interview questions during your meeting. Take a look at those to see the kinds of questions that are perfect for mentioning these skills.

However, you don’t have to stop there. If you’re asked about your greatest achievement or your strengths, those could be opportunities, too. Nearly any open-ended question could be the right time to discuss those skills, so keep that in mind as you practice for your interview.

How to Develop Problem-Solving Skills If You Don’t Have Them

Developing problem-solving skills may seem a bit tricky on the surface, especially if you think you don’t have them. The thing is, it doesn’t actually have to be hard. You simply need to use the right strategy.

First, understand that you probably do have problem-solving skills; you simply may not have realized it. After all, life is full of challenges that you have to tackle, so there’s a good chance you’ve developed some abilities along the way.

Now, let’s reframe the question and focus on how to improve your problem-solving skills. Here’s how to go about it.

Understand the Problem-Solving Process

In many cases, problem-solving is all about the process. You:

Identify the problem
Analyze the key elements
Look for potential solutions
Examine the options for viability and risk
Decide on an approach
Review the outcome for lessons

By understanding the core process, you can apply it more effectively. That way, when you encounter an issue, you’ll know how to approach it, increasing the odds you’ll handle the situation effectively.

Try Puzzles and Games

Any activity that lets you take the steps listed above could help you hone your problem-solving skills. For example, brainteasers, puzzles, and logic-based games can be great places to start.

Whether it’s something as straightforward – but nonetheless challenging – as Sudoku or a Rubik’s Cube, or something as complex as Settlers of Catan, it puts your problem-solving skills to work. Plus, if you enjoy the activity, it makes skill-building fun, making it a win-win.

Look for Daily Opportunities

If you’re looking for a practical approach, you’re in luck. You can also look at the various challenges you face during the day and think about how to overcome them.

For example, if you always experience a mid-day energy slump that hurts your productivity, take a deep dive into that problem. Define what’s happening, think about why it occurs, consider various solutions, pick one to try, and analyze the results.

By using the problem-solving approach more often in your life, you’ll develop those skills further and make using these capabilities a habit. Plus, you may find ways to improve your day-to-day living, which is a nice bonus.

Volunteer for “Stretch” Projects

If you’re currently employed, volunteering for projects that push you slightly outside of your comfort zone can help you develop problem-solving skills, too. You’ll encounter the unknown and have to think outside of the box, both of which can boost critical problem-solving-related skills.

Plus, you may gain other capabilities along the way, like experience with new technologies or tools. That makes the project an even bigger career booster, which is pretty awesome.

List of Problem-Solving Skills

Alright, we’ve taken a pretty deep dive into what problem-solving skills are. Now, it’s time for some problem-solving skills examples.

As we mentioned above, there are a ton of capabilities and traits that can support better problem-solving. By understanding what they are, you can showcase the right abilities during your job search.

So, without further ado, here is a quick list of problem-solving skill examples:

Collaboration
Organization
Decision-Making
Troubleshooting
Self-Reliance
Self-Motivation
Communication
Attention to Detail
Brainstorming
Forecasting
Active Listening
Accountability
Open-Mindedness
Critical Thinking
Flexibility

Do you have to showcase all of those skills during your job search individually? No, not necessarily. Instead, you want to highlight a range of capabilities based on what the hiring manager is after. If you’re using the Tailoring Method, you’ll know which ones need to make their way into your resume, cover letter, and interview answers.

Now, are there other skills that support problem-solving? Yes, there certainly can be.

Essentially any skill that helps you go from the problem to the solution can, in its own right, be a problem-solving skill.

All of the skills above can be part of the equation. But, if you have another capability that helps you flourish when you encounter an obstacle, it can count, too.

Reflect on your past experience and consider how you’ve navigated challenges in the past. If a particular skill helped you do that, then it’s worth highlighting during a job search.

If you would like to find out more about skills to put on a resume , we’ve taken a close look at the topic before. Along with problem-solving skills, we dig into a variety of other areas, helping you choose what to highlight so that you can increase your odds of landing your perfect job.

Putting It All Together

Ultimately, problem-solving skills are essential for professionals in any kind of field. By honing your capabilities and showcasing them during your job search, you can become a stronger candidate and employee. In the end, that’s all good stuff, making it easier for you to keep your career on track today, tomorrow, and well into the future.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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Best Problem-Solving Skills for a Resume. How to List Them

When it comes to landing your dream job, problem-solving skills are highly valued by employers across a variety of industries. These skills demonstrate your ability to think critically, analyze situations, and develop effective solutions to complex problems. Including your problem-solving skills on your resume can help you stand out to potential employers and showcase your ability to handle challenges in the workplace.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best problem-solving skills to include on your resume and provide tips on how to list them effectively to increase your chances of landing your desired job.

Best Problem-Solving Skills for a Resume. How to List Them

Table of Contents

What Are Problem-Solving Skills?

Problem-solving skills refer to the ability to analyze situations, identify problems, and develop effective solutions to complex issues. It involves critical thinking, creativity, and the ability to make informed decisions based on available information.

Effective problem-solving skills are essential for success in any career. According to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers , problem-solving skills are ranked among the top three most important skills that employers look for in job candidates.

Furthermore, a study by the World Economic Forum found that problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity are projected to be the top three skills required for the workforce by 2025.

Source: World Economic Forum

2. Critical thinking

The ability to objectively analyze information to make informed decisions and solve complex problems.

“Applied critical thinking skills to analyze complex business problems and develop effective solutions.”

“Evaluated financial data to identify inefficiencies and developed cost-saving measures that reduced expenses by 15%.”

“Conducted in-depth research to identify market trends and forecasted future demand for products, resulting in a 10% increase in sales revenue.”

“Developed and implemented risk management strategies to minimize potential losses and ensure business continuity.”

“Used critical thinking skills to develop innovative ideas and streamline processes, resulting in improved efficiency and productivity.”

3. Creativity

The ability to think outside the box and develop innovative solutions to problems.

“Developed creative solutions to complex business problems by thinking outside the box and leveraging my creative problem-solving skills.”

“Designed and implemented a new product packaging concept that led to a 25% increase in sales within the first six months.”

“Developed and executed a social media marketing campaign that went viral and resulted in a 50% increase in brand awareness.”

“Developed an innovative employee incentive program that resulted in a 30% reduction in employee turnover rates.”

“Continuously generated new ideas and innovative solutions to streamline processes and improve efficiency across multiple departments.”

4. Decision-making

The ability to make informed decisions based on available information and data.

“Exercised strong decision-making skills to evaluate complex information and make informed decisions.”

“Analyzed data from multiple sources to identify trends, opportunities and potential risks.”

“Developed and implemented effective risk management strategies to minimize potential losses and ensure business continuity.”

“Successfully negotiated contracts with vendors to achieve cost savings of 20%.”

“Made strategic decisions that resulted in a 15% increase in sales revenue within the first year of employment.”

“Continuously evaluated the effectiveness of decisions and made necessary adjustments to improve outcomes.”

5. Strategic thinking and ideation

The ability to think long-term and develop plans to achieve goals and overcome challenges.

“Applied strong strategic thinking skills to develop and implement long-term business plans that aligned with organizational goals.”

“Analyzed market trends and customer behavior to identify new opportunities and create competitive advantages.”

“Developed and executed a product development strategy that resulted in a 30% increase in market share within the first year.”

“Led cross-functional teams to implement new processes and systems that improved efficiency and reduced costs by 25%.”

“Continuously evaluated the competitive landscape and adjusted strategies to stay ahead of industry trends.”

6. Problem identification

The ability to identify potential problems before they arise and take preventive measures to address them.

“Used strong problem identification skills to identify and diagnose complex business issues.”

“Conducted root cause analysis to identify underlying problems and develop effective solutions.”

“Developed and implemented a new quality control system that reduced product defects by 20%.”

“Conducted internal audits to identify process inefficiencies and implemented process improvements that resulted in a 30% reduction in lead time.”

“Continuously monitored business operations to identify potential issues and proactively developed contingency plans to mitigate risks.”

7. Adaptability

The ability to quickly adjust and change course when faced with unexpected challenges.

“Applied strong adaptability skills to thrive in fast-paced and dynamic work environments.”

“Demonstrated the ability to quickly learn new processes and procedures and adapt to changing priorities.”

“Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously, adjusting project plans as needed to meet changing requirements.”

“Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop new products and services that met evolving customer needs.”

“Successfully navigated a company-wide restructuring by taking on new responsibilities and adapting to a new organizational structure.”

“Proactively sought out feedback from managers and colleagues to continuously improve performance and adapt to changing expectations.”

8. Communication

The ability to effectively communicate with colleagues, stakeholders and customers to understand their needs and develop solutions.

“Used strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams and solve complex problems.”

“Facilitated open and transparent communication among team members to ensure everyone was aligned and working towards a common goal.”

“Successfully led cross-functional projects by effectively communicating project plans, goals, and timelines to all stakeholders.”

“Developed and delivered engaging presentations to communicate complex data and project results to senior leadership.”

“Collaborated with customers to understand their needs and effectively communicated those needs to the product development team, resulting in a 15% increase in customer satisfaction ratings.”

9. Collaboration

The ability to work effectively in a team and collaborate with others to achieve common goals.

“Collaborated effectively with cross-functional teams to achieve project goals and solve complex problems.”

“Demonstrated strong interpersonal skills by building positive relationships with team members and stakeholders.”

“Proactively identified and resolved conflicts to ensure smooth collaboration and successful project outcomes.”

“Actively participated in team meetings and contributed to brainstorming and ideation sessions to generate creative solutions.”

“Successfully led cross-functional teams by delegating tasks and responsibilities and ensuring alignment among team members.”

“Developed and implemented new team-building activities that increased team morale and improved collaboration.”

10. Time management

The ability to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines and work efficiently to achieve objectives.

“Managed multiple projects simultaneously, consistently meeting project deadlines and ensuring high-quality deliverables.”

“Developed and implemented effective time management strategies, including prioritization and task delegation, to increase productivity and efficiency.”

“Proactively identified potential roadblocks and adjusted project plans as needed to stay on track.”

“Utilized project management software to track progress and communicate project status to stakeholders.”

“Successfully managed a team of interns, delegating tasks and providing guidance to ensure timely and accurate completion of projects.”

“Received recognition from management for consistently delivering projects ahead of schedule and under budget.”

Including these problem-solving skills on your resume can demonstrate to potential employers that you are a strategic thinker, a creative problem solver, and a valuable asset to any team.

Jobs That Require Problem-Solving Skills

There are many jobs that require problem-solving skills. Here are some examples:

Engineers: Engineers are responsible for designing, building, and testing products, systems, and structures. They often encounter complex problems that require creative problem-solving skills to solve.

IT professionals: IT professionals are responsible for managing and troubleshooting computer systems and networks. They must be able to identify and solve technical issues quickly and effectively.

Healthcare professionals: Healthcare professionals, such as doctors and nurses, must use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to diagnose and treat patients.

Lawyers: Lawyers must analyze complex legal issues and develop creative solutions to help their clients achieve their goals.

Business professionals: Business professionals, such as managers and executives, must be able to analyze data, identify problems, and develop strategies to solve them.

Educators: Educators must be able to identify and address the individual needs of their students and develop creative solutions to help them succeed.

Scientists: Scientists must use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to design experiments, analyze data, and develop new theories and technologies.

Entrepreneurs: Entrepreneurs must be able to identify opportunities and solve problems in order to start and grow successful businesses.

Overall, problem-solving skills are essential in a wide range of professions and industries, and are highly valued by employers.

Problem-Solving Skills Resume Example

Here is an example of a resume that demonstrates your ability to resolve difficult situations.

Name: John Doe Contact Information: Email: [email protected] Phone: (123) 456-7890 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johndoe Summary: Highly analytical and creative problem-solver with a strong track record of developing and implementing effective solutions. Skilled in collaborating with cross-functional teams and adapting to changing environments. Skills: – Problem identification and analysis – Creative thinking and innovation – Strategic planning and execution – Collaboration and teamwork – Strong communication skills – Time management and prioritization Experience : ABC Company Position: Project Manager Duration: Jan 2019 – Present Responsibilities: – Led cross-functional teams in the development and execution of strategic initiatives – Identified and analyzed potential project risks, and developed contingency plans to mitigate them – Streamlined project management processes, resulting in a 20% increase in efficiency – Developed innovative solutions to complex problems, resulting in a 15% increase in customer satisfaction – Collaborated with stakeholders to develop and implement new product features, resulting in a 10% increase in revenue XYZ Company Position: Business Analyst Duration: Mar 2016 – Dec 2018 Responsibilities: – Conducted data analysis and identified opportunities for process improvement – Developed and executed action plans to address identified issues, resulting in a 25% increase in productivity – Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop new product features, resulting in a 10% increase in customer retention – Analyzed customer feedback and developed strategies to improve customer experience, resulting in a 20% increase in customer satisfaction Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, XYZ University, Graduated in May 2016 Certifications: Project Management Professional (PMP) Six Sigma Green Belt

How Can I Improve My Problem Solving Skills?

To improve your problem-solving skills, start by breaking down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts. Practice analyzing and identifying the root cause of a problem, brainstorming multiple potential solutions, and evaluating the pros and cons of each option.

Additionally, seek out opportunities to work on collaborative problem-solving projects and seek feedback from others on your approach to dealing with issues. Continuously challenging yourself to solve new problems and refining your problem-solving process can help you improve your skills over time.

Should I Include Hard Skills or Soft Skills as Problem-Solving Skills?

Both hard and soft skills are important for problem-solving . Hard skills such as data analysis and computer programming are critical for identifying and analyzing problems, while soft skills such as communication and collaboration are important for developing and implementing solutions. It’s best to include a mix of both hard and soft skills as problem-solving skills on your resume, to demonstrate your ability to approach problems from different angles and work effectively with others to achieve positive results.

Why Do Employers Value Problem-Solving Skills?

Employers value problem-solving skills because they are critical for driving business success. Individuals who possess strong problem-solving skills can identify and analyze problems, develop and implement effective solutions, and collaborate with others to achieve positive results.

These skills can lead to increased productivity, improved customer satisfaction, and a better overall business performance.

Additionally, problem-solving skills are essential for innovation and growth, allowing companies to adapt to changes in the market and stay ahead of the competition. Employers look for candidates with strong problem-solving skills because they want employees who can contribute to the company’s success and help drive future growth.

What Other Skills Do Employers Look for?

In addition to problem-solving skills, employers also value a range of other skills including communication, teamwork, adaptability, leadership, time management, and technical expertise in specific fields. These skills can help employees work effectively with others, manage projects and resources efficiently, and stay up to date with industry trends and best practices. By highlighting a combination of problem-solving and other key skills on your resume, you can demonstrate your ability to contribute to a company’s success and add value in the workplace.

Build a strong skill base for your resume: Resume Skills – Complete Career Hub 2023

7 Best Problem-Solving Skills for Your Resume + Examples

11 min read · Updated on April 17, 2024

If you're a strong problem solver, your resume needs to prove it!

Imagine this scenario: a supplier delivers the wrong piece of equipment, your deadline is tomorrow, and your logistics person is out sick. What would you do if you were the one who had to respond?

All businesses encounter problems at one time or another. That's why companies need high-quality employees on hand who can solve problems like shifting deadlines, equipment failure, and changing client needs. Those problem-solving skills can mean the difference between success and failure.

That's why today's employers are actively seeking candidates who possess these critical problem-solving skills.

But what are problem-solving skills?

How do you identify which ones you might have or which ones a hiring manager might be looking for?

Most importantly, how can you present problem-solving on your resume to land that interview?

In this post, we'll help you learn to identify, define, and present problem-solving skills in your resume.

What are problem-solving skills?

Put simply, problem-solving skills help you overcome challenges and obstacles. They enable you to identify the core issue, propose solutions, choose the best option, and implement it.

When employers talk about problem-solving skills, they're usually referring to the ability to deal with challenging, complex, or unexpected situations. While they enable someone to assess and solve problems calmly, these skills can also be useful for relationship building and routine decision-making.

Why do companies need employees with problem-solving skills?

All companies experience challenges that can impact their operations and effectiveness. Those businesses will always need people to help them to find solutions to their problems. In fact, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers' Job Outlook, 86% of employers look for problem-solving skills on student resumes.

Employers like to see good problem-solving skills because it also shows them you have a range of other talents, like logic, creativity, resilience, imagination, and lateral thinking.

Looking for problem-solving skills in a job description

Sometimes, a job description will plainly state the problem-solving skills that the job requires. More often, however, problem-solving is one of those skill sets that don't necessarily appear in the “requirements” section of a job post. Employers simply expect candidates to demonstrate an analytical mind. So, instead, they will describe those desired skills using other phrases.

In those instances, you can look for keywords to identify the skills the employer is seeking. When you find any relevant keywords in the job description, you'll be able to tell what skills you should highlight in the resume you send in.

How to include problem-solving skills on a resume

It should be easy to highlight these skills during an interview, where you can describe a specific problem and paint a picture of how you successfully solved it. But it's also easy to find ways to illustrate your problem-solving on your resume.

Problem-solving skills sound like they're self-explanatory, but they can be difficult to describe without good storytelling. Unlike conceptual skills like abstract thinking and ideation, problem-solving skills are all about developing and implementing an action plan. That's why the best strategy to demonstrate your problem-solving skills is to tell a story: find specific examples of challenging scenarios and explain the plan you implemented and the results you achieved.

Related post : How to Create an Effective STAR Method Resume (With Examples)

Many resumes will use terms like “critical thinker” or “problem-solver.” Instead, get specific by showing how you've used a skill in a way that has solved a problem at work.

Give examples of scenarios where those skills lead to a solution

Describe a specific process you employed

List major accomplishments enabled by your solution

Add specific training related to problem-solving skills

Use various keywords to avoid repeating “problem-solving”

Let's look at 4 places on a resume where you can describe your problem-solving skills.

Where to include problem-solving skills on your resume

The summary.

The summary is a great place to present a core skill that has benefitted you and your employers. If you've been responsible for finding out-of-the-box solutions to unexpected problems or been a team leader known for adjusting to personnel or process challenges, this is the place to introduce those talents.

Solutions-driven sales specialist with 10 years of experience managing sales teams, analyzing markets, expanding market reach, and solving logistics issues. Extensive experience with rolling out new products and reinventing campaigns. Transformed market by 40% despite a period of intense market fluctuation.

In the work experience section

The work experience section is the ideal place to list problem-solving skills that have contributed to proven solutions. When detailing past job roles, you can use details like percentages, dollar amounts, and specific scenarios to show how your ability to analyze issues, find options, and communicate action plans has solved problems.

Mention a time when you took the initiative to troubleshoot key areas

Explain your habit of collecting new data regularly

Give examples of instances when you assumed a leadership role in process optimization

Look at the following resume example. It shows how this candidate's ability to design solutions, optimize testing processes, and adjust the process to the client helped to optimize process efficiency and save the client money.

In addition, the candidate highlights his communication skills by showing that he can collaborate with clients to adapt processes to their needs.

Solar Engineer, Acme Corp, 2010 - 2020

Developed solution designs in collaboration with Software Architects that improved process efficiency by 150% and reduced costs by $300K

Supported testing on 3 large-scale projects to refine solutions and ensure they were fit for purpose and matched the customer's needs, resulting in $1M savings for the client

The skills section

If problem-solving skills are needed for a particular role, the hiring manager will be looking for them in the skills section. The key, however, is to only list skills that specifically relate to the job posting.

Remember, it's crucial to tailor each resume to a specific job advertisement, including the skills section. This is obviously easier if the job post explicitly lists desired skills. If it doesn't, look for keywords in the bullet points of the requirements part of the job description to find specific problem-solving skills to include in your resume.

Is it a management position looking for a “proven leader?” Communication skills are a must-have talent.

Is it a logistics position that requires experience with scaling? Then, troubleshooting and negotiation skills will be paramount.

There are both soft skills and hard skills that can be defined as problem-solving skills. “Test development” can be trained, but “troubleshooting” improves with experience. When considering which skills you possess, look at both categories.

Data analysis / Process analysis / Project design / Solution design / Test development / Benchmark development / Troubleshooting / Collaboration

A notable achievements section

A notable achievements section isn't always necessary, but some resumes can benefit from including one. If, for example, you're using a functional resume format for a career change resume or you're a senior executive looking to emphasize career highlights, an accomplishments section can really highlight those skills in action.

If you're using this section to focus on your problem-solving skills, describe accomplishments with demonstrable results.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Re-designed and upgraded front-end on 20+ sites with jQuery, AJAX, and Handlebars.js
Oversaw process improvements, which reduced expenses by $225,000 per quarter
Restructured the supply chain team following vendor flow issues

Related post : Seven Key Resume Sections and How to Organize Them

7 Important problem-solving skills for your resume

Problem-solving skills can range from detail-oriented diagnostics to team leadership. Here's a list of skills involved in various stages of the problem-solving process. When crafting your resume, look to these examples to see what problem-solving skills you might have.

1. Research

Research skills are an essential component of the problem-solving skill set, enabling you to identify and understand the root cause of an issue. Research involves gathering data and information, consulting with more experienced colleagues, acquiring knowledge online or from external sources, and collating newfound data for dissemination. This skill is about the ability to find and use the right resources, extract the data you need, and brainstorm with the right group of people. This means:

Studying specific cases without generalizing

Aiming at variables that make the desired differences

Reporting findings in understandable terms

2. Analysis

The first step in finding a solution is an effective analysis of the problem. To solve a problem, you must be able to analyze it from every angle. Your analytical skills will also help you identify and propose solutions that can resolve the problem.

Analytical skills allow you to assess data and processes to find solutions to a company's challenges. These include:

Forecasting

Data analysis

Interpretation of data and metrics

Deductive reasoning

Inductive reasoning

Diagnostics

3. Critical-thinking

Critical thinking is the ability to process details with a particular flow and draw connections between concepts and facts. In other words, it's “thinking about thinking” – or finding and fixing flaws in the way we think.

The ability to think critically is the foundation of problem solving. Unless you can see the big picture, you won't be able to identify the pros and cons of different action plans.

Critical thinking includes:

Interpretation

Open-mindedness

4. Decision making

Decision-making is the ability to choose solutions to problems. Simply stated, it's taking the relevant collected data, considering multiple viewpoints, and making an informed choice.

Once the choices are narrowed down, you'll need to pull the trigger – knowing you'll be held accountable for the decision. At times, you may need to make these decisions quickly, even if the wrong decision might make the problem worse. The ability to make proper use of your research and analysis to select the best action plan is a valuable skill. Components of this skill include:

Emotional Intelligence

Organization

5. Creativity

Sometimes, the best solution is only found by thinking outside the box. That demands creativity.

Creativity is the ability to approach a task or a challenge in a different way. In other words, it's possessing the imagination to generate new ideas and find interesting approaches and unique perspectives. Creativity is often described as

Divergent thinking

Inspirational thinking

Outside-the-box thinking

Experimental thinking

6. Communication

Strong communication skills are vital during all phases of problem solving:

While identifying and analyzing the problem, you'll need to know how to communicate the core issues to others.

When researching the background of the issue, you'll need to know what communication channels are appropriate when seeking guidance.

When brainstorming possible solutions, you will need to know how to guide a team through positive and effective discussions.

Then, once you find a solution, communicating the action plan with clarity and precision is key to avoiding confusion and achieving proper implementation.

No problem would ever be solved without good communication skills at work.

Communication skills, however, include a much broader array of abilities beyond just speaking clearly. They also encompass listening in ways that make your colleagues feel heard, body language that puts your audience at ease, and vocal pitch adjustments to make your point land better. Here are a few common communication skills:

Active listening

Giving constructive feedback

Presentation / visual communication

Nonverbal communication

Written communication

Oral communication

Voice modulation

Rapport building

7. Collaboration

In the business world, most problems are solved by teams of dedicated personnel, working in collaboration with one another. When highlighting this skill, you need to show how you've worked effectively as part of a team to generate and implement solutions.

Collaboration, by definition, means working with one or more individuals to complete a task. In the workplace, collaboration can be brainstorming ideas, delegating tasks to individual strengths, layering pieces of a process, or bringing together the team to understand the bigger picture.

When people work together, they're more effective at problem solving than when attempting to go it alone. Successful collaboration with your coworkers also increases their motivation and engagement at work, making them feel like they're an important part of the team.

Collaboration includes:

Long-term thinking

Adaptability

Positive debate

Emotional intelligence

The bottom line

In an increasingly complex business environment, the ability to solve problems is more important than ever before. As a result, including these high-value problem-solving skills on your resume can help to ensure that employers recognize your full value proposition as a prospective new hire. That, in turn, can help to separate you from your competition and increase your odds of landing an interview and job offer.

If you want to make sure that the problem-solving skills in your resume are making the right impression on employers, take a few moments to get your free resume review from our team of experts today!

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26 Expert-Backed Problem Solving Examples – Interview Answers

Published: February 13, 2023

Interview Questions and Answers

Actionable advice from real experts:

Biron Clark

Former Recruiter

Contributor

Dr. Kyle Elliott

Career Coach

Hayley Jukes

Editor-in-Chief

Biron Clark , Former Recruiter

Kyle Elliott , Career Coach

Hayley Jukes , Editor

As a recruiter , I know employers like to hire people who can solve problems and work well under pressure.

A job rarely goes 100% according to plan, so hiring managers are more likely to hire you if you seem like you can handle unexpected challenges while staying calm and logical.

But how do they measure this?

Hiring managers will ask you interview questions about your problem-solving skills, and they might also look for examples of problem-solving on your resume and cover letter.

In this article, I’m going to share a list of problem-solving examples and sample interview answers to questions like, “Give an example of a time you used logic to solve a problem?” and “Describe a time when you had to solve a problem without managerial input. How did you handle it, and what was the result?”

Problem-solving involves identifying, prioritizing, analyzing, and solving problems using a variety of skills like critical thinking, creativity, decision making, and communication.
Describe the Situation, Task, Action, and Result ( STAR method ) when discussing your problem-solving experiences.
Tailor your interview answer with the specific skills and qualifications outlined in the job description.
Provide numerical data or metrics to demonstrate the tangible impact of your problem-solving efforts.

What are Problem Solving Skills?

Problem-solving is the ability to identify a problem, prioritize based on gravity and urgency, analyze the root cause, gather relevant information, develop and evaluate viable solutions, decide on the most effective and logical solution, and plan and execute implementation.

Problem-solving encompasses other skills that can be showcased in an interview response and your resume. Problem-solving skills examples include:

Critical thinking
Analytical skills
Decision making
Research skills
Technical skills
Communication skills
Adaptability and flexibility

Why is Problem Solving Important in the Workplace?

Problem-solving is essential in the workplace because it directly impacts productivity and efficiency. Whenever you encounter a problem, tackling it head-on prevents minor issues from escalating into bigger ones that could disrupt the entire workflow.

Beyond maintaining smooth operations, your ability to solve problems fosters innovation. It encourages you to think creatively, finding better ways to achieve goals, which keeps the business competitive and pushes the boundaries of what you can achieve.

Effective problem-solving also contributes to a healthier work environment; it reduces stress by providing clear strategies for overcoming obstacles and builds confidence within teams.

Examples of Problem-Solving in the Workplace

Correcting a mistake at work, whether it was made by you or someone else
Overcoming a delay at work through problem solving and communication
Resolving an issue with a difficult or upset customer
Overcoming issues related to a limited budget, and still delivering good work through the use of creative problem solving
Overcoming a scheduling/staffing shortage in the department to still deliver excellent work
Troubleshooting and resolving technical issues
Handling and resolving a conflict with a coworker
Solving any problems related to money, customer billing, accounting and bookkeeping, etc.
Taking initiative when another team member overlooked or missed something important
Taking initiative to meet with your superior to discuss a problem before it became potentially worse
Solving a safety issue at work or reporting the issue to those who could solve it
Using problem solving abilities to reduce/eliminate a company expense
Finding a way to make the company more profitable through new service or product offerings, new pricing ideas, promotion and sale ideas, etc.
Changing how a process, team, or task is organized to make it more efficient
Using creative thinking to come up with a solution that the company hasn’t used before
Performing research to collect data and information to find a new solution to a problem
Boosting a company or team’s performance by improving some aspect of communication among employees
Finding a new piece of data that can guide a company’s decisions or strategy better in a certain area

Problem-Solving Examples for Recent Grads/Entry-Level Job Seekers

Coordinating work between team members in a class project
Reassigning a missing team member’s work to other group members in a class project
Adjusting your workflow on a project to accommodate a tight deadline
Speaking to your professor to get help when you were struggling or unsure about a project
Asking classmates, peers, or professors for help in an area of struggle
Talking to your academic advisor to brainstorm solutions to a problem you were facing
Researching solutions to an academic problem online, via Google or other methods
Using problem solving and creative thinking to obtain an internship or other work opportunity during school after struggling at first

How To Answer “Tell Us About a Problem You Solved”

When you answer interview questions about problem-solving scenarios, or if you decide to demonstrate your problem-solving skills in a cover letter (which is a good idea any time the job description mentions problem-solving as a necessary skill), I recommend using the STAR method.

STAR stands for:

It’s a simple way of walking the listener or reader through the story in a way that will make sense to them.

Start by briefly describing the general situation and the task at hand. After this, describe the course of action you chose and why. Ideally, show that you evaluated all the information you could given the time you had, and made a decision based on logic and fact. Finally, describe the positive result you achieved.

Note: Our sample answers below are structured following the STAR formula. Be sure to check them out!

EXPERT ADVICE

Dr. Kyle Elliott , MPA, CHES Tech & Interview Career Coach caffeinatedkyle.com

How can I communicate complex problem-solving experiences clearly and succinctly?

Before answering any interview question, it’s important to understand why the interviewer is asking the question in the first place.

When it comes to questions about your complex problem-solving experiences, for example, the interviewer likely wants to know about your leadership acumen, collaboration abilities, and communication skills, not the problem itself.

Therefore, your answer should be focused on highlighting how you excelled in each of these areas, not diving into the weeds of the problem itself, which is a common mistake less-experienced interviewees often make.

Tailoring Your Answer Based on the Skills Mentioned in the Job Description

As a recruiter, one of the top tips I can give you when responding to the prompt “Tell us about a problem you solved,” is to tailor your answer to the specific skills and qualifications outlined in the job description.

Once you’ve pinpointed the skills and key competencies the employer is seeking, craft your response to highlight experiences where you successfully utilized or developed those particular abilities.

For instance, if the job requires strong leadership skills, focus on a problem-solving scenario where you took charge and effectively guided a team toward resolution.

By aligning your answer with the desired skills outlined in the job description, you demonstrate your suitability for the role and show the employer that you understand their needs.

Amanda Augustine expands on this by saying:

“Showcase the specific skills you used to solve the problem. Did it require critical thinking, analytical abilities, or strong collaboration? Highlight the relevant skills the employer is seeking.”

Interview Answers to “Tell Me About a Time You Solved a Problem”

Now, let’s look at some sample interview answers to, “Give me an example of a time you used logic to solve a problem,” or “Tell me about a time you solved a problem,” since you’re likely to hear different versions of this interview question in all sorts of industries.

The example interview responses are structured using the STAR method and are categorized into the top 5 key problem-solving skills recruiters look for in a candidate.

1. Analytical Thinking

Situation: In my previous role as a data analyst , our team encountered a significant drop in website traffic.

Task: I was tasked with identifying the root cause of the decrease.

Action: I conducted a thorough analysis of website metrics, including traffic sources, user demographics, and page performance. Through my analysis, I discovered a technical issue with our website’s loading speed, causing users to bounce.

Result: By optimizing server response time, compressing images, and minimizing redirects, we saw a 20% increase in traffic within two weeks.

2. Critical Thinking

Situation: During a project deadline crunch, our team encountered a major technical issue that threatened to derail our progress.

Task: My task was to assess the situation and devise a solution quickly.

Action: I immediately convened a meeting with the team to brainstorm potential solutions. Instead of panicking, I encouraged everyone to think outside the box and consider unconventional approaches. We analyzed the problem from different angles and weighed the pros and cons of each solution.

Result: By devising a workaround solution, we were able to meet the project deadline, avoiding potential delays that could have cost the company $100,000 in penalties for missing contractual obligations.

3. Decision Making

Situation: As a project manager , I was faced with a dilemma when two key team members had conflicting opinions on the project direction.

Task: My task was to make a decisive choice that would align with the project goals and maintain team cohesion.

Action: I scheduled a meeting with both team members to understand their perspectives in detail. I listened actively, asked probing questions, and encouraged open dialogue. After carefully weighing the pros and cons of each approach, I made a decision that incorporated elements from both viewpoints.

Result: The decision I made not only resolved the immediate conflict but also led to a stronger sense of collaboration within the team. By valuing input from all team members and making a well-informed decision, we were able to achieve our project objectives efficiently.

4. Communication (Teamwork)

Situation: During a cross-functional project, miscommunication between departments was causing delays and misunderstandings.

Task: My task was to improve communication channels and foster better teamwork among team members.

Action: I initiated regular cross-departmental meetings to ensure that everyone was on the same page regarding project goals and timelines. I also implemented a centralized communication platform where team members could share updates, ask questions, and collaborate more effectively.

Result: Streamlining workflows and improving communication channels led to a 30% reduction in project completion time, saving the company $25,000 in operational costs.

5. Persistence

Situation: During a challenging sales quarter, I encountered numerous rejections and setbacks while trying to close a major client deal.

Task: My task was to persistently pursue the client and overcome obstacles to secure the deal.

Action: I maintained regular communication with the client, addressing their concerns and demonstrating the value proposition of our product. Despite facing multiple rejections, I remained persistent and resilient, adjusting my approach based on feedback and market dynamics.

Result: After months of perseverance, I successfully closed the deal with the client. By closing the major client deal, I exceeded quarterly sales targets by 25%, resulting in a revenue increase of $250,000 for the company.

Tips to Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills

Throughout your career, being able to showcase and effectively communicate your problem-solving skills gives you more leverage in achieving better jobs and earning more money .

So to improve your problem-solving skills, I recommend always analyzing a problem and situation before acting.

When discussing problem-solving with employers, you never want to sound like you rush or make impulsive decisions. They want to see fact-based or data-based decisions when you solve problems.

Don’t just say you’re good at solving problems. Show it with specifics. How much did you boost efficiency? Did you save the company money? Adding numbers can really make your achievements stand out.

To get better at solving problems, analyze the outcomes of past solutions you came up with. You can recognize what works and what doesn’t.

Think about how you can improve researching and analyzing a situation, how you can get better at communicating, and deciding on the right people in the organization to talk to and “pull in” to help you if needed, etc.

Finally, practice staying calm even in stressful situations. Take a few minutes to walk outside if needed. Step away from your phone and computer to clear your head. A work problem is rarely so urgent that you cannot take five minutes to think (with the possible exception of safety problems), and you’ll get better outcomes if you solve problems by acting logically instead of rushing to react in a panic.

You can use all of the ideas above to describe your problem-solving skills when asked interview questions about the topic. If you say that you do the things above, employers will be impressed when they assess your problem-solving ability.

More Interview Resources

3 Answers to “How Do You Handle Stress?”
How to Answer “How Do You Handle Conflict?” (Interview Question)
Sample Answers to “Tell Me About a Time You Failed”

About the Author

Biron Clark is a former executive recruiter who has worked individually with hundreds of job seekers, reviewed thousands of resumes and LinkedIn profiles, and recruited for top venture-backed startups and Fortune 500 companies. He has been advising job seekers since 2012 to think differently in their job search and land high-paying, competitive positions. Follow on Twitter and LinkedIn .

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15 Best Jobs for People With Killer Problem Solving Skills

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15 Best Jobs for People With Killer Problem Solving Skills

There are different kinds of jobs which involve several types of problem-solving skills. There are some people who have an inborn skill to solve problems and there are some others who acquire these skills by practice. These people are constantly engaged in handling information and issues which sometimes involve inventing new methods of solving them. The US department of labor has released some data about hundreds of jobs suitable for people having killer problem-solving skills .

Top Problem Solving Skills
Problem Solving Skills of a Leader

Now let us get to know 15 jobs which are suitable for people who are experts in solving problems.

Government Property Inspectors

This is the job which has a score of 100 with respect to the problem-solving skills. The main job of these inspectors is to go to the different government departments to check whether all the government properties are in accordance with the contracts and various laws made by the country. The educational qualification required for doing this job is a basic training in vocational education. Any person who does this job gets a remuneration of 55,100 dollars per year.

Sports- Medicine Physician

hese physicians help the athletes to identify the nature of the problem and to treat it by giving appropriate treatment. It also helps to check various other ailments which are common in athletes. The annual compensation available for such physicians is 1,97,500. But it requires a high educational qualification such as MD, or Ph.D. in the related field. The problem-solving skill score is 97 in the case of these physicians.

Neurologist

These medical practitioners help to diagnose problems which arise in the Brain and central nervous system in the form of dysfunction. This is a job with a problem-solving score of 98. Talking about the educational qualification the physicians should have a Bachelors, Masters, and Ph.D. or MD in Neurology.

Radiologist

These are doctors who understand the X- Ray images and communicate to the patient regarding their diseases. They also do the same for the physicians who treat these patients. The problem-solving score for this type of job is 98%. These radiologists should have a high educational qualification such as Ph.D. or MD in Radiology.

Nurse Anesthetist

He is a person who administers anesthesia for the patients. These patients are those who are about to undergo a surgery. Their job doesn't end with administering anesthesia. They have to check the patient's body reaction to the anesthesia. The score of problem-solving in the case of this job is 97%.

Air-traffic Controller

These are the people who help us to fly from one destination to another. Air traffic controllers control the traffic at the airport and the time the flights fly from one place to another. To get into such a job one has to have a Bachelor degree in any discipline in addition to three years experience as an air traffic controller. In addition to this, they have to pass exams and pursue a Federal Aviation Academy course. They should have a high problem-solving skill which has a score of 97 by the American department of labor.

Anesthesiologist

An anesthesiologist is a physician who decides the drug for sedation to be administered to the patient. He constantly observes the patient before and after an operation. The problem-solving skill score is about 95 for this job.

Ophthalmologist

He is a doctor who checks and corrects the eyesight of a patient. He also has an experience in performing eye surgery. The problem-solving skill score is 95.

Magistrates pronounce judgment is criminal and civil cases. They are also authorized to perform wedding ceremonies. The problem-solving skill score is around 95 in the case of such jobs.

CEO or President of a Company

They are the policy and decision makers of a company. They also have the responsibility of implementing these policies within the organization. The score for problem-solving skill is about 94 upon 100.

Assistant Physician

He is the one who assists the doctor and conducts initial patient tests and counseling. The score for problem-solving skill given by labor department of the US is 94.

Preventive-Medicine Physician

Preventive medicine physician is the one who helps the nurses and physicians in the form of preventing many ailments before they attack the patients. He also supplies information about these life taking diseases to many statisticians. The score is 94/100.

Social Service Manager

Social service manager plans and coordinates the various social service programs. They also oversee the various community services provided by various companies.

Respiratory Therapy Physician

He assists the patients in the emergency wards. The problem-solving skill score is 94.

He is the one who compiles the data regarding death rate, disease, accidents Etc. The problem-solving skill score is around 93.

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Key soft skills developers need to elevate to senior roles or management.

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Tigran Sloyan is the cofounder and CEO of CodeSignal , a technical interview and assessment platform.

Think of the highest-performing senior engineers and engineering managers at your organization. What qualities and skills do they have that make them so effective?

Chances are, what comes to mind isn’t just "hard" technical skills in relevant coding languages, frameworks and technologies—it’s likely also "soft skills," like the ability to collaborate, problem-solve and see the big picture.

Supply for this kind of talent is in demand: An analysis of job trends found that demand for engineering managers will increase 21% by 2028. To fill this gap in their engineering teams, leaders will need to foster career growth and leadership from within.

As CEO and co-founder of a company that helps engineering teams hire and develop great talent, I've observed firsthand the major role that soft skills play in career progression and excellent leaders. Here are the five critical soft skills that I've seen propel developers to the next level:

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Trump vs. harris 2024 polls: harris leading likely voters by 2 points in latest survey, samsung slashes galaxy s24 price ahead of iphone 16 release, 1. communication.

Communication is the backbone of any successful engineering team. Senior developers and engineering managers must articulate complex technical concepts to both their engineering colleagues and nontechnical stakeholders clearly, and with the appropriate context.

A 2019 study by LinkedIn revealed that 92% of hiring managers say soft skills, particularly communication, are crucial for hiring the right candidate. This should not be surprising. In my experience partnering with technical recruiting teams at large companies, “communication” tops the list of soft skills hiring teams look for in their engineering candidates.

Building your team members’ verbal and written communication skills is a key step to helping them advance their careers.

2. Problem-Solving

Problem-solving is at the heart of software development and is a foundational skill for any developer aspiring to move into a senior role or engineering management—just behind communication, in my experience.

Effective problem solvers can identify issues, analyze complex situations and devise innovative solutions quickly. What makes senior- and management-level engineers stand out is their ability to see the big picture of the problems they're solving: not just what's technically required to address them, but why doing so matters for the business.

3. Collaboration

No engineer is an island. To build great products, engineers need to collaborate with colleagues, stakeholders and cross-functional teams to achieve their goals. In fact, Stanford University researchers found that employees who collaborate are much more effective at completing tasks .

Senior developers and engineering managers should be excellent collaborators who can facilitate communication on their teams, delegate tasks appropriately and create a culture where every team member feels respected.

4. Leadership

Leadership isn’t just about having authority; it’s about inspiring and guiding a team toward a common goal. Leadership skills are also in short supply: A recent Gartner analysis found that engineering leaders struggled to develop (subscription required) leadership skills among their senior engineers.

Aspiring senior developers and engineering managers must demonstrate leadership by taking initiative on projects, making strategic decisions aligned with business objectives and providing mentorship to junior team members. When your team members demonstrate these leadership qualities while still in a junior role, it can help them move up the ladder more quickly.

5. Adaptability

The tech industry is characterized by rapid change and continuous innovation—now more than ever with the groundbreaking advancements in AI technology.

Senior developers and engineering managers must be adaptable and keep apprised of new technologies and industry trends. Staying current with these trends and being open to change—and learning—are key skills for career advancement.

Encouraging A Culture Of Ongoing Learning

CTOs and other business leaders play an important role in fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within their teams. A growth mindset here is key: While some team members may seem like “natural” communicators, it’s important to remember that communication and other soft skills can be learned.

Invest in building a leadership pipeline at your organization that includes opportunities for engineers to practice soft skills on the job. One simple and effective way to do this is by investing in learning resources and tools designed to help engineers build soft skills. Leaders can also support mentoring programs within their engineering teams where senior-level engineers meet regularly with their junior-level colleagues to share career advice and strategies.

Building leaders from within your organization can enhance your team’s performance, reduce the need to recruit externally and boost employee engagement and retention.

Advancing from a developer role to a senior position or engineering management requires more than just technical chops. When engineers hone their skills in communication, problem-solving, collaboration, leadership and adaptability, they are better prepared to advance in their careers—whether as individual contributors or managers.

CTOs and business leaders must support this development through both a culture of ongoing learning and real investment in upskilling resources that equip your engineering teams to grow from within.

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Understanding conceptual skills (With definitions, types, examples, and tips)

Management roles have changed a lot over the years, especially in Singapore's fast-paced business landscape. Higher-level managers now turn their companies' visions into actionable strategies. They make decisions balancing strategic objectives with calculated risks. They help their organisations adapt to changing trends for long-term growth. Good conceptual skills enable managers to perform these tasks competently.

If you aspire to be a successful manager, mastering conceptual skills is essential. These skills help you grasp high-level ideas and tackle challenging situations creatively. From managing projects to resolving conflicts , these skills can significantly enhance your leadership and managerial abilities.

In this article, we will discuss what conceptual skills are. You will learn how to develop them to get ahead in your career. The topics we will cover include:

What are conceptual skills?

Types of conceptual skills, why are conceptual skills important for people in management roles, examples of conceptual skills in the workplace, demonstrating conceptual skills in interviews, how to improve your conceptual skills.

Conceptual skills are the ability to think broadly, strategically, and creatively to make informed decisions and plans. They essentially involve seeing beyond immediate details. This helps understand how different elements fit together and how they can be utilised to achieve goals.

Conceptual skills are different from technical and human skills. Technical skills encompass practical abilities and expertise necessary to perform specific tasks in specialised fields. Human skills revolve around interpersonal relationships, communication, and leadership abilities. These are interpersonal skills and are crucial for teamwork and effective people management.

Conceptual skills include strategic planning, critical thinking, problem-solving and the ability to analyse complex situations. They are essential for leaders to navigate uncertainty and drive organisational success.

Examples of conceptual thinking in management scenarios:

Strategic planning : Developing a long-term growth strategy for a company based on market trends and competitive analysis.
Problem-solving : Identifying root causes of organisational inefficiencies and proposing systemic solutions.
Conflict resolution : Understanding underlying issues in team conflicts and mediating to foster constructive outcomes.

Check out this conceptual skill list to find out how to become a conceptual manager:

Active listening skills

Active listening is the ability to pay attention to a speaker, understand what they mean, and respond appropriately. Listening skills include attention, empathy, patience, validation, nonverbal communication, and situational awareness.

Communication skills

This is the ability to convey information and ideas clearly and effectively. Examples include written communication, verbal communication, nonverbal communication, presentation skills, active listening, and asking the right questions.

Analytical skills

Analytical skills entail examining and interpreting data to understand relationships, patterns, and trends. Examples include research, data analysis, critical thinking, and creativity.

Problem-solving skills

Problem-solving skills enable you to identify issues and come up with effective solutions. Some skills that fall under problem-solving include logical thinking, critical thinking, multitasking, troubleshooting, and decision-making.

Creative thinking skills

Creative thinking skills involve thinking in new and original ways to solve complex issues. Examples include open-mindedness, strategic planning, collaboration, and idea formulation.

Abstract thinking skills

Abstract thinking allows you to interpret information beyond its literal meaning. Examples include creativity, mindfulness, counterfactual thinking, prediction, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking.

Decision-making skills

Decision-making involves choosing between different courses of action in a rational and informed way. Examples include problem-solving, creativity, logical thinking, leadership, critical thinking, collaboration, and intuition.

Leadership skills

Leadership skills enable guiding and motivating a team to achieve a desired outcome. Examples include team building, management, empathy, delegation, flexibility, and persuasion.

Managerial skills

Managerial skills are abilities required to lead a team to achieve specific objectives. Examples include communication, planning, decision-making, problem-solving, delegation, and motivation.

Conceptual skills are critical for leadership positions, especially in middle- and upper-management roles within Singapore. A manager should ensure each employee works towards the organisation's larger goals, always keeping the big picture in mind. With strong conceptual skills, you can identify challenges and use your analytical and abstract thinking to develop effective solutions that drive the company's success.

For example, if you are a manager overseeing a market research team, you might notice changes in the company's customer base in Singapore. Without the conceptual and analytical abilities to interpret this data, you could miss potential opportunities to reach new customers, resulting in lost business prospects for the company.

In addition, conceptual skills can enhance your ability to manage a team in Singapore. By combining conceptual and technical skills, you can identify how each team member contributes to the organisation's goals, facilitating more effective delegation. You can also use conceptual and interpersonal skills to address and resolve conflicts among team members, fostering a more positive work environment.

Conceptual skills and their role in decision-making

Conceptual skills help you identify issues early within your organisation. This foresight allows you to make decisions that benefit the company in the long run.

For instance, foreseeing a move towards sustainability, you might invest in eco-friendly technologies ahead of competitors. Your strong conceptual skills enable you to predict market shifts and make timely investments.

Decisions shaped by conceptual skills lead to sustainable growth and competitive advantage. By strategically positioning resources and anticipating future trends, you can maintain relevance and profitability over time.

For example, using your conceptual skills, you might predict customer preferences in your retail chain. You can adjust inventory accordingly, preventing overstocking and enhancing customer satisfaction. This proactive approach boosts sales and profitability.

Conceptual skills and their role in problem-solving

Conceptual skills help you form effective business strategies by allowing you to see the big picture. You can analyse complex situations, address core problems and leverage opportunities for growth.

By understanding industry trends and predicting future challenges, you can set your organisation’s vision and long-term goals. Conceptual skills enable you to think outside the box and come up with unique solutions. When faced with a difficult problem, you can generate creative ideas that others might not consider.

Leaders at Netflix for instance, used their conceptual skills to foresee the decline of physical media and the rise of digital content. They shifted the company's focus from DVD rentals to streaming services. This strategic pivot ensured their long-term success.

Business strategy development

A manager at a tech company observes a rising demand for smart home devices. Using conceptual skills, they devise a strategic approach to enter this market. They analyse trends, identify potential challenges, and create a plan to pivot the business model. This strategic decision opens new revenue streams and positions the company for future growth.

Organisational restructuring

In a manufacturing firm experiencing declining productivity, a leader uses conceptual skills to restructure the organisation. They identify inefficiencies across departments, streamline operations, and enhance productivity. This move optimises resources and strengthens the company's competitive position.

Crisis management

During a PR crisis caused by a product defect, a leader applies conceptual skills to navigate the company through turmoil. They develop a comprehensive crisis management strategy, including transparent communication, product recalls, and risk mitigation plans. This decisive action rebuilds trust and stabilises the company's reputation.

Innovative product development

A product manager at a consumer electronics company identifies a market need for eco-friendly gadgets. Using conceptual skills, they lead the development of a new product line that meets sustainability demands. Through feasibility studies and creative problem-solving, they successfully launch innovative products, enhancing market competitiveness and brand reputation.

Case studies of renowned leaders

Jeff Bezos (Amazon)

Jeff Bezos strategically used conceptual skills to expand Amazon beyond an online bookstore into a global e-commerce powerhouse . Anticipating market shifts and leveraging technological advancements, he transformed Amazon's business model and diversified its offerings.

Indra Nooyi (PepsiCo)

Indra Nooyi demonstrated strong conceptual skills by restructuring PepsiCo's product portfolio to focus on healthier options. Recognising consumer trends towards health and wellness, she led strategic initiatives that reshaped PepsiCo's brand identity and market position.

Showing your conceptual skills in job interviews can help you stand out from other job seekers. Follow these tips to land your next great opportunity:

Preparation strategies

Before an interview, you should prepare by analysing the job description thoroughly. This helps you understand where conceptual skills are most needed. Research the company's strategic direction and the challenges it faces. This understanding will enable you to prepare examples from your experience that show how your conceptual abilities align with the company's needs.

Answering interview questions effectively

Anticipate interview questions that may test your conceptual skills. Here are some examples:

Can you describe your problem-solving process?

Sample answer :

In addressing problems, I begin by clearly defining the issue at hand. I consult with relevant stakeholders to gather diverse perspectives and insights. After understanding the problem's context, I brainstorm possible solutions and assess their feasibility and potential impact. I prioritise the most viable option, implement it, and closely monitor the outcomes. I also make adjustments as necessary and document the process for future reference.

How do you make data-driven decisions?

I start by clearly defining the question or problem that needs to be addressed. Next, I collect relevant data from reliable sources, ensuring the information is accurate and comprehensive. I analyse the data using appropriate tools and techniques to uncover trends and patterns. Based on these insights, I formulate a decision, considering the data's strengths and limitations. I then implement the decision and monitor the outcomes to refine future decision-making processes.

Showcasing past experiences

During interviews, highlight past experiences where conceptual skills played a critical role. Discuss the specific challenges you encountered, the innovative approaches you implemented, and the outcomes achieved. Emphasise how these experiences contributed to your personal and professional growth.

Consider preparing a portfolio or other tangible evidence that demonstrates your conceptual skills. This could include case studies, projects, or strategic plans where you made significant contributions.

You can advance your career by enhancing your conceptual skills. Here are some steps to consider:

Develop a reading habit

Regular reading can significantly improve your conceptual skills. Seek out articles or books that challenge your abstract thinking abilities.

Volunteer to be a team leader

Take opportunities to lead your team. Setting practical goals and actively participating in brainstorming sessions and strategic meetings can hone your conceptual thinking.

Training and education

Explore online courses and workshops focused on conceptual skills. These programs can help you develop crucial abilities such as data analysis, decision-making, problem-solving, critical thinking, and abstract thinking, making you a more effective manager.

If you want to improve your conceptual skills to advance your career in Singapore, consider these steps:

Develop a reading habit : Reading can help you build conceptual skills. Consider seeking out articles or books that challenge your abstract thinking abilities.
Volunteer to be a team leader : When the opportunity arises, volunteering to lead your team is a great way to practise your conceptual skills. Set small and practical goals and participate in brainstorming sessions and strategic meetings.
Training and education : Some online courses and workshops focus on conceptual skills, which are particularly valuable in Singapore's dynamic business environment. These programs help develop key competencies such as data analysis, decision-making, problem-solving, cost-benefit assessment, critical thinking, and abstract thinking. All of these skills are crucial for effective management in the region.

Conceptual skills are essential for leadership, managerial, and executive professionals. They enable you to analyse and understand complex concepts, use analytical and abstract thinking, and develop actionable strategies for long-term growth. These abilities can benefit an organisation and help you stand out from your colleagues or other job seekers. Read books and attend courses to improve your conceptual skills and advance your career continually .

Here are some questions people often ask about conceptual skills:

What are examples of conceptual skills? ⁠ Examples of important conceptual skills include analytical, creative, and abstract thinking. They also include communication, problem-solving, decision-making, leadership, and managerial skills.
Why are conceptual skills important for leadership roles? ⁠ A leader should do more than complete tasks and manage day-to-day operations. You also need to see the big picture and understand how your team's efforts contribute to the organisation's goals. You must solve problems and make decisions. Conceptual skills can help you perform all these functions more effectively.
How can I develop my conceptual skills? ⁠ Some ways to conceptual skills them include reading texts about conceptual abilities, volunteering to become a leader, and attending courses and workshops.
How do I demonstrate conceptual skills in a resume or cover letter? ⁠ You can highlight your conceptual skills in the work experience, achievements, skills, or summary section of your resume. If you want to include them, mention a time in your career when you used your conceptual abilities to overcome complex problems.
How can an interviewer test your conceptual skills? ⁠ Your interviewer may assess your conceptual skills by asking questions about your analytical, abstract thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, or leadership abilities.
How do I balance showcasing conceptual and practical skills in an interview? ⁠ If you want to showcase conceptual and practical skills in an interview, explain how the two types of skills complement each other. For instance, you can talk about how you use your conceptual abilities to analyse data but make decisions based on objective information rather than assumptions.
What are common mistakes when trying to demonstrate conceptual skills? ⁠ Some of the common mistakes that job seekers make when demonstrating conceptual skills include using vague or irrelevant examples, not quantifying results, and failing to prepare for behavioural questions .
What local resources can help improve my conceptual skills in Singapore? ⁠Consider enrolling in courses offered by Singapore Management University (SMU) or Nanyang Technological University (NTU). These institutions offer programs that can enhance your conceptual and strategic thinking skills.

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Top 10 Future-Proof Careers in a Shifting Economy

To thrive long-term in a high-tech and uncertain workforce, students and new graduates should aim for fields that are in high demand while also building on transferable soft skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, communications, and adaptability.

In today’s fast-changing economy, simply following the crowd or clinging to the old ways won’t cut it anymore. The days when a college degree alone could guarantee a stable career are long gone — replaced by a world where, according to the World Economic Forum, 44 percent of workers’ skills are on the verge of being outdated within the next five years.

This isn’t just some abstract prediction; it’s the reality that young adults must face head-on. McKinsey’s research drives the point home: By 2030, up to 375 million workers — 14 percent of the global workforce — might be forced to switch careers because automation and artificial intelligene (AI) are rewriting the rules.

Let’s not sugarcoat it, this is a wake-up call. We’re living in a time when those who aren’t ready to adapt, learn, and innovate will find themselves left behind. The real challenge now is finding a path that offers not just a job but a future that’s resilient enough to withstand the seismic shifts already upon us. It’s time to stop waiting for someone else to fix it and start controlling your destiny in a world where nothing is guaranteed.

To navigate these turbulent times, it’s crucial to identify and prepare for careers that not only meet today’s job market demands but can weather future disruptions. In this article, I’ll explore the top 10 careers projected to provide both stability and growth, laying a solid foundation for those who are serious about future-proofing their professional lives in an ever-changing world.

1. Nurse Practitioner

With an aging population and increasing demand for healthcare, the role of nurse practitioners has never been more critical. They are not just filling a gap; they are at the forefront of redefining healthcare in America. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 38 percent growth in this role by 2032. The need is immediate, with nearly 123,600 positions already unfilled. This is more than a career — it’s a calling. Nurse practitioners often serve as the primary healthcare providers in underserved areas, making a real difference in people’s lives. With a median salary of $124,680, this path offers both security and purpose.

2. Information Security Analyst

As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, the importance of safeguarding data cannot be overstated. Information security analysts are the gatekeepers in our digital world, standing between organizations and potential chaos. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts a 32 percent increase in demand for these professionals by 2032, with over 168,900 positions currently unfilled. This role offers more than just a paycheck; it provides a critical mission in protecting our increasingly digital society. The median salary of $120,360 reflects the importance and responsibility of this position.

3. Software Developer

The digital revolution isn’t just happening, it’s accelerating. Software developers are the architects of this new reality, building the tools and applications that shape our daily lives. The BLS anticipates a 25 percent growth in this field by 2032, with an existing shortfall of over 153,900 developers needed to meet the demand. A median salary of $130,160 underscores this profession’s high stakes and vast opportunities. For those with a knack for coding and a vision for the future, roles in full-stack development, mobile app development, or systems architecture are natural extensions.

4. Data Scientist

Those who can interpret and analyze information hold significant power in a data-driven world. Data scientists go beyond number crunching; they influence critical decisions across industries. The demand is clear, with a 35 percent projected growth by 2032 and a current shortfall of nearly 177,000 professionals. With a median salary of $108,020, this sector not only promises lucrative job opportunities but also serves as a conduit to pivotal roles like data analyst, machine learning engineer, and business intelligence analyst — each of which is crucial to the fabric of the contemporary economy.

5. Physician Assistant (PA)

The healthcare industry is a team effort, and Physician Assistants (PAs) are vital in delivering quality care. Working closely with doctors, PAs diagnose and treat patients, often becoming the backbone of medical teams. The BLS projects a 27 percent growth in this role by 2032, with a median salary of $130,020. This career offers stability and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives. Specialization in heart surgery, urgent care, dermatology, and other medical fields further enhances career prospects. Additionally, PAs have the flexibility to work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices.

6. Electrician

Electricians are more crucial than ever in an era where smart technology and renewable energy are the future. They don’t just wire buildings; they create the infrastructure that powers our homes, businesses, and cities. The demand is strong, with the BLS projecting an 8 percent growth in this field by 2032 and 70,000 positions currently unfilled. A median salary of $61,590 highlights the stability and opportunity in this trade. Roles like electrical inspector, electrical contractor, or maintenance electrician offer paths for further growth.

7. HVAC Technician

As buildings become more energy-efficient and climate control becomes increasingly important, the role of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians is expanding. This field isn’t just about fixing air conditioners; it’s about ensuring that our environments are comfortable and safe. The BLS expects 6 percent growth in this career path by 2032, with 40,000 positions needing to be filled. The median salary in 2023 was $57,300, but with specialized training, one could advance to roles such as refrigeration technician, boiler operator, or system installer.

8. Medical and Health Services Manager

Behind every successful healthcare facility is a team of administrators who ensure everything runs smoothly. Medical and Health Services Managers are the leaders who make this possible, and the BLS projects a 28 percent growth in this role by 2032, with nearly 60,000 positions currently unfilled. With a median salary of $110,680 in 2023, this career offers not just stability but also the chance to shape the future of healthcare. Related roles include hospital administrator, clinical manager, and health information manager, each critical to the health sector’s growth.

9. Wind Turbine Service Technician

As the world pivots towards sustainable energy, the need for skilled Wind Turbine Service Technicians has skyrocketed. These professionals maintain the turbines that are central to green energy. The BLS predicts a 45 percent growth in this role by 2032, with a current shortfall of around 18,000 technicians. With a median salary of $61,770, there’s also room to advance into roles like renewable energy technician, solar panel installer, or energy auditor.

10. Plumber

While technology advances, some essential roles remain constant, and plumbing is one of them. Plumbers have been the unsung heroes of our infrastructure for centuries, and their work is more relevant today than ever. As our infrastructure ages and more housing developments are built, the need for skilled plumbers is critical. The BLS projects a 2 percent growth by 2032, with about 50,000 positions currently unfilled. With a median salary of $61,550 in 2023, this career offers both security and respect. Paths like pipefitters, steamfitters, or plumbing inspectors are available for those looking to diversify.

The Power of Transferable Skills

These careers are built on specific skills, but it’s the transferable skills that truly set the best workers apart. Critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and adaptability are the tools that will see you through any career shift. Whether you’re diving into data science or mastering HVAC systems, these skills are your constant companions on the path to success.

Preparing for these careers isn’t just about earning a degree or certification but also about personal growth. Seek internships, join relevant clubs, take online courses, and network actively. The job market rewards those who take the initiative, and by developing your skills and connections early, you’ll be positioning yourself for long-term success.

Facing the Future with Lifelong Learning

In a constantly evolving world, learning shouldn’t stop at graduation. Lifelong learning is the key to staying ahead in any career. Whether pursuing advanced certifications or staying updated on industry trends, your commitment to learning will be what distinguishes you in the marketplace.

Automation and AI are reshaping industries, but they don’t have to be your enemies. By focusing on roles that require human empathy, creativity, and complex problem-solving, you can ensure that your career remains resilient against technological change. There will always be a demand for human expertise, so position yourself in areas where you’ll be irreplaceable.

Opportunities are out there, but they’re reserved for those who are ready. Don’t let the economy dictate your future, take the first step today. Explore these careers, develop your skills, and build a future-proof career that will thrive in any economy.

Yes, the world is changing, but you can navigate it and thrive. With the right preparation and a willingness to grow, you can ensure that your ability to adapt within your career changes with it — and for the better.

Interested in pursuing a fully accredited, biblically based education? Liberty University has been training students to serve as “Champions for Christ” in their respective professions across the industry spectrum for over 50 years. With over 350 residential academic concentrations, 20 NCAA Division 1 athletic programs , opportunities to serve domestically and abroad , and an unapologetic Christian worldview, your experience at Liberty University will provide an education that roots you in truth and allows you to learn, grow, and impact the culture for Christ. Apply now!

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About NetApp

NetApp is the intelligent data infrastructure company, turning a world of disruption into opportunity for every customer. No matter the data type, workload or environment, we help our customers identify and realize new business possibilities. And it all starts with our people.

If this sounds like something you want to be part of, NetApp is the place for you. You can help bring new ideas to life, approaching each challenge with fresh eyes. We embrace diversity and openness because it's in our DNA. Of course, you won't be doing it alone. At NetApp, we're all about asking for help when we need it, collaborating with others, and partnering across the organization - and beyond.

"At NetApp, we fully embrace and advance a diverse, inclusive global workforce with a culture of belonging that leverages the backgrounds and perspectives of all employees, customers, partners, and communities to foster a higher performing organization."-George Kurian, CEO

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented AI Intern to join our dynamic team. As an intern, you will have the opportunity to work closely with our functional and technical professionals and contribute to the development, testing and delivery of various AI projects.

We are seeking interns with understanding of machine learning (specifically, exploratory knowledge in Generative AI) to build cloud native AI applications. This internship will provide you with valuable hands-on experience in the field of AI and a chance to develop your skills in a real-world setting.

Collaborate with the IT and/or Business functional team members to identify and prioritize use cases where AI can be leveraged.
Demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently.
Assist in the design, development, and implementation of AI algorithms and models.
Conduct research on state-of-the-art AI techniques and contribute to the development of innovative solutions.
Collect, preprocess, and analyze data to train and evaluate AI models.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather and document business requirements. Contribute to the development of AI solutions.
Assist in the testing and validation of AI models to ensure their accuracy and reliability.
Show a strong aptitude for learning modern technologies and understanding how to utilize them to solve real-world technical and business problems.
Stay updated with the latest advancements in AI technologies and contribute to the team's knowledge base.
Document project progress, methodologies, and results for internal and external stakeholders.
Participate in team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and knowledge-sharing activities.
At the end of the internship, conduct an end-of-program presentation to the IT leadership team showcasing the projects completed.
Currently pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in computer science, Engineering, or a related field.
Familiarity of machine learning algorithms and concepts or hands-on experience working on data analytics/ML/AI related projects in an academic setting.
Proficiency in at least one backend programming language for API Development (Python, Java, JS, or Go).
Familiarity with a UI framework (e.g., Angular, React JS).
Experience with SQL.
Experience with data analytics skills.
Familiarity with popular machine learning libraries or frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).
Exploratory knowledge of distributed computing and machine learning toolsets (e.g., Generative AI).
Experience working on real-world AI project(s) from prior work internship or in a non-academic setting is a plus.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

NetApp is firmly committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and to compliance with all laws that prohibit employment discrimination based on age, race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, disability or genetic information, pregnancy, and any protected classification.

Did you know...

Statistics show women apply to jobs only when they're 100% qualified. But no one is 100% qualified. We encourage you to shift the trend and apply anyway! We look forward to hearing from you.

Why NetApp?

We are all about helping customers turn challenges into business opportunity. It starts with bringing new thinking to age-old problems, like how to use data most effectively to run better - but also to innovate. We tailor our approach to the customer's unique needs with a combination of fresh thinking and proven approaches.

We enable a healthy work-life balance. Our volunteer time off program is best in class, offering employees 40 hours of paid time off each year to volunteer with their favourite organizations. We provide comprehensive benefits, including health care, life and accident plans, emotional support resources for you and your family, legal services, and financial savings programs to help you plan for your future. We support professional and personal growth through educational assistance and provide access to various discounts and perks to enhance your overall quality of life.

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Seasonal Customer Service Representative - 2024

Provide excellent customer service through various channels including live chats, emails, and phone calls.
Address customer inquiries, concerns, and issues promptly and professionally
Provide customers with support about Minted products and promotions, as well as general order information; provide assistance with processing orders and customizing designs
Document customer interactions thoroughly and accurately in our CRM, while following departmental policies
Use support tools & training including our knowledge base to provide a seamless customer experience
Identify opportunities for improving the customer experience and share those with Customer Service leadership
Attain the highest quality possible, with accountability for your own Quality and Productivity KPIs
Able to positively and efficiently resolve customer concerns and prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
Able to take direction and quickly learn new procedures, processes, and products
Open to feedback, believing in a culture of continuous improvement as you work toward individual and departmental goals
Able to utilize various customer service tools, software, and systems to effectively manage customer interactions
Able to reliably meet a required flexible/variable hour work schedule including weekends based on business needs and adhere to company attendance policy
A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience
1+ years of experience working with customers (preferably at a premium brand)
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
High attention to detail, are organized, and able to follow through
Experience with Salesforce or other CRM software a plus
Experience working on a Mac computer a plus

Key skills needed in a Customer Service Team

Learning and Development

legal and general customer service rep smiling at computer

Good customer service is such a big factor in customer retention. It makes our Customer Service Team a very important and vital part of our business. On average, 65% of customers have reported changing to another brand due to a poor customer service experience.

Providing customer service isn’t just about answering questions; it’s about making a real difference, solving problems and supporting our customers, no matter the nature or complexity of their contact. Our Customer Service Teams are the heartbeat of our business, making sure our customers are supported throughout their time with us.

So, what does it take to do well and grow in this team? Let’s explore the key customer service skills and strengths needed to be successful at Legal & General.

The core of excellent customer service is communication

Effective communication is the cornerstone of excellent customer service. Whether it’s through phone, email, or chat, clear and concise communication helps customers feel heard and valued.

Our financial services products can be complex in nature so the ability to break this information down into easy-to-understand terms is essential. When we’re hiring, we’re looking for the following skills:

Verbal communication: clear and concise speaking abilities to effectively convey information.
Written communication: the ability to write clearly and professionally, particularly in emails and chat.
Active listening: skilled at attentively listening to customers to fully understand their needs and concerns.

Great communication isn’t just about saying the right words but also being able to listen and respond appropriately and when required, empathetically. This is what makes good customer service to be great . Strong communication skills are essential to a variety of roles. That’s why we are open to applications from candidates from many industries; our teams are made up of professionals from retail, hospitality, contact centres, banking, care, nursing and teaching to name a few!

Gemma went from fashion to finance when she joined our Customer Service Team working in pensions. She is one of our many success stories that highlight new opportunities that are open with us and how we will invest in your success.

Strong problem-solving skills are essential

Our customers reach out to our Customer Service Teams with a variety of issues and queries. Customers expect fast and effective resolutions. An experienced and trained L&G customer service colleague e can quickly assess a situation, figure out the root cause of the issue and support t the customer with the appropriate solution. At the same moment, making sure the customer leaves happy and informed.

The key to enhancing this skill is to practise staying calm under pressure as well as reflecting and learning from previous customer interactions.

Interpersonal skills help you build customer relationships

At Legal & General, we believe in building lasting relationships with people. Personable skills help create rapport with customers, which builds loyalty and customer satisfaction. Interpersonal skills can be broken down into these key sets of soft skills:

Empathy: effectively understanding and sharing the feelings of others, ensuring customers feel heard and valued.
Patience: maintain calm and composure, especially with frustrated or difficult customers.
Positive Attitude: Consistently exhibit a friendly and optimistic demeanour to enhance customer satisfaction.
Resilience : It’s important to not let small setbacks or complaints affect you personally by professionally responding to them with solutions.

You can improve and develop your interpersonal skills by being mindful of your language use, showing genuine interest in the customers' needs and being patient and understanding during the conversation.

Join our Customer Service Team at Legal & General

We are looking for passionate professionals to join our team. If you are ready to make a positive impact on people's lives and grow your career, then we want to hear from you. We offer a diverse and inclusive environment where you can make an impact and learn.

Start your customer service career with us today, where your skills are valued and your career development is our priority.

Explore our recent Customer Service Jobs and apply today.

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What we do.

There’s so much more to us than meets the eye. We’re insurers, investors, builders, city-regenerators and green technology champions.

And whatever the future holds, our people’s knowledge, skill and passion will mean we’re placed to make a real difference to society.

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22 Exciting Problem-Solving Jobs for Critical Thinkers
Here are 22 exciting problem-solving jobs for people who think critically: 1. Air traffic controller. National average salary: $47,375 per year Primary duties: Air traffic controllers observe aircraft such as airplanes and track their routes to prevent collisions. They also speak with pilots about weather conditions, route changes and other ...
13 Best Jobs for Problem Solvers (High Paying)
Strong negotiation skills. Ability to explain complex concepts clearly. Strong presentation skills. 3. Ethical Hacker. Average salary: $106,617. An Ethical Hacker, also known as a White Hat Hacker or Penetration Tester, intentionally probes computer systems for security vulnerabilities.
32 Jobs For Problem Solvers (Solution Seekers' Guide)
Average Salary: $70,000 - $120,000 per year. Software Developers design, develop, and maintain software systems and applications to solve real-world problems. This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy applying their analytical and technical skills to create innovative solutions. Job Duties:
26 Jobs For Thinkers And Problem Solvers (Logic Lovers' Lane)
Mechanical Engineer. Average Salary: $70,000 - $95,000 per year. Mechanical Engineers are responsible for designing, analyzing, and developing machines and mechanical systems. This role is ideal for thinkers and problem solvers who enjoy applying principles of engineering and physics to design innovative solutions.
Best Careers for Problem Solving: Top Opportunities for Critical Thinkers
Management and decision-making skills play a significant role in maximizing one's problem-solving capabilities and success in careers for problem solvers. Understanding Problem Solving Problem solving is a critical skill in many careers, as it involves the ability to identify, analyze, and resolve issues or challenges that one may encounter ...
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Check out the 20 best jobs for problem solvers below: Advertisement. No. 20. Hospitalist. College of DuPage/Flickr. Average annual salary (2015): $197,700*. Problem-solving importance level: 93.
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Software developers hone their problem-solving skills through on-the-job experience, obtaining additional certifications and credentials, and staying current with rapid industry developments. Outside of their core job functions, they might contribute code to open source projects, participate in coding challenges and hackathons, or volunteer ...
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs requiring frequent problem-solving, such as software developers and natural sciences managers, have a median salary of over $100,000 annually. So, by honing these skills, you can increase your earning potential and advance in your career. How To Highlight Problem-Solving Skills in a Job Interview
Entry Level Problem Solving jobs
Boeing Quality Engineering Entry-level and Associate Positions. BOEING. Seattle, WA. $54,000 - $139,000 a year. Experience using strong analytical and problem-solving skills. The Boeing Company is seeking Entry-Level Quality Engineers who are passionate about problem…. Posted 2 days ago ·.
Problem-Solving Skills: What They Are and How to Improve Yours
Problem-solving skills defined. Problem-solving skills are skills that allow individuals to efficiently and effectively find solutions to issues. This attribute is a primary skill that employers look for in job candidates and is essential in a variety of careers. This skill is considered to be a soft skill, or an individual strength, as opposed ...
25 In-Demand Jobs That Require Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
Dietitians and nutritionists. Number of jobs projected through 2030/percent growth from 2020: 73,000/11%. Entry-level education required: Bachelor's Degree. 2021 Median pay: $61,650. Critical thinking skill for dietitians: Plan and implement food service and nutritional programs in a variety of settings.
Your Guide to Problem-Solving Skills at Work
During this stage of the problem-solving process, curiosity is key; you'll need it to explore all the different factors that could be contributing to the problem. Skills needed during this step of the problem-solving process include: SEARCH ALL JOBS. Analysis (including root-cause analysis) Brainstorming. Creativity.
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Problem-solving is one of the top resume skills that employers believe will grow in importance over the next five years (and beyond), according to the Future of Jobs report by the World Economic Forum. "Research in the past few years points to problem-solving skills as being crucial to business success. Many employers now put these ahead of technical skills," says John Kleeman, founder of ...
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Active listening. Analysis. Research. Creativity. Communication. Decision-making. Team-building. Problem-solving skills are important in every career at every level. As a result, effective problem-solving may also require industry or job-specific technical skills.
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10 Jobs That Require Problem-Solving Skills. As we've already mentioned, problem-solving skills come in handy for practically every job. Whether you're a teacher who needs to solve a dispute between peers in your class or a customer representative who needs to help a client, knowing how to go about solving issues is definitely an asset.
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Although problem-solving is a skill in its own right, a subset of seven skills can help make the process of problem-solving easier. These include analysis, communication, emotional intelligence, resilience, creativity, adaptability, and teamwork. 1. Analysis. As a manager, you'll solve each problem by assessing the situation first.
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Problem-solving skills are crucial in many careers - these can be improved by gaining technical knowledge, seeking out opportunities to problem solve, and learning from experienced colleagues. Multiple skills contribute to effective problem-solving, including active listening, research, analysis, creativity, time-management decision making, and ...
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While any related skills are worth highlighting, some may get you further than others. Analysis, research, creativity, collaboration, organization, and decision-making are all biggies. With those skills, you can work through the entire problem-solving process, making them worthwhile additions to your resume.
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In fact, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers' Job Outlook, 86% of employers look for problem-solving skills on student resumes. Employers like to see good problem-solving skills because it also shows them you have a range of other talents, like logic, creativity, resilience, imagination, and lateral thinking.
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The problem-solving skill score is about 95 for this job. He is a doctor who checks and corrects the eyesight of a patient. He also has an experience in performing eye surgery. The problem-solving skill score is 95. Magistrates pronounce judgment is criminal and civil cases. They are also authorized to perform wedding ceremonies.
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To thrive long-term in a high-tech and uncertain workforce, students and new graduates should aim for fields that are in high demand while also building on transferable soft skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, communications, and adaptability. In today's fast-changing economy, simply following the crowd or clinging to the old ways won't cut it anymore. The days when a college ...
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Demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently. Assist in the design, development, and implementation of AI algorithms and models. Conduct research on state-of-the-art AI techniques and contribute to the development of innovative solutions. Collect, preprocess, and analyze data to train and evaluate AI models.
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Improve your problem-solving skills. Problem-solving is an important skill for managers, and it involves analysing the situation, communicating effectively, and coming up with creative solutions. As a current or future manager looking to build your problem-solving skills, it is often helpful to take a professional course.
Minted
CSRs use their problem-solving and people skills while working directly with our customers to address their questions through multiple channels - phone, email & live chat. Reporting to a Customer Service Team Supervisor, CSRs have excellent written and verbal communication skills and are savvy in working with a variety of systems and technology.
Key skills needed in a Customer Service Team
Interpersonal skills help you build customer relationships. At Legal & General, we believe in building lasting relationships with people. Personable skills help create rapport with customers, which builds loyalty and customer satisfaction. Interpersonal skills can be broken down into these key sets of soft skills:
The 4 Essential Soft Skills for Landing Your Dream Job
Keywords: soft skills for job, dream job skills, career growth, essential soft skills, job success, communication skills, teamwork abilities, problem-solving skills, interpersonal skills. This information is AI generated and may return results that are not relevant. It does not represent TikTok's views or advice.

13 Best Jobs for Problem Solvers (High Paying)

What Makes a Good Job for Problem Solvers?

Best Jobs for Problem Solvers

1. Air Traffic Controller

2. Sales Engineer

3. Ethical Hacker

4. Quality Assurance Manager

5. Business Intelligence Analyst

6. Product Manager

7. Logistics Coordinator

8. Acoustic Consultant

9. Fraud Investigator

10. UX Designer

11. Disaster Recovery Specialist

12. Private Investigator

13. Technical Writer

See, There Are Careers for Problem Solvers!

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26 Jobs For Thinkers And Problem Solvers (Logic Lovers’ Lane)

Data Scientist

Software Developer

Civil Engineer

Management Consultant

Financial Analyst

Cybersecurity Analyst

Mathematician

Operations Research Analyst

Computer Systems Analyst

Biomedical Engineer

Statistician

Electrical Engineer

Aerospace Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

AI Researcher

Forensic Scientist

Clinical Psychologist

Medical Researcher

Logistics Specialist

Cryptographer

Artificial Intelligence Engineer

Philosopher

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Key Takeaways

Role of Problem Solving in Careers

Problem Solving in Science and Mathematics

Methods and Tools for Problem Solving

Significance of Education and Training

Using Occupational Information for Career Guidance

Specific Careers for Problem Solvers

Importance of Management and Decision-Making Skills

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The 20 best jobs for people who love to solve problems

No. 20. Hospitalist

No. 19. Administrative law judge, adjudicator, or hearing officer

No. 18. Obstetrician or gynecologist

No. 17. Education administrator, elementary and secondary school

No. 16. Midwife

No. 15. Actuary

No. 14. Respiratory therapy technician

No. 13. Social and community-service manager

No. 12. Preventive-medicine physician

No. 11. Physician assistant

No. 10. Chief executive

No. 9. Judge, magistrate judge, or magistrate

No. 8. Ophthalmologist

No. 7. Anesthesiologist

No. 6. Air-traffic controller

No. 5. Nurse anesthetist

No. 4. Radiologist

No. 3. Neurologist

No. 2. Sports-medicine physician

No. 1. Government-property inspector or investigator

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