Problem or Solutions Focus?

How do you approach a problem — do you focus on the problem, the reason why, or on the solution?

Every person approaches a problem in a different way. Some focus on the problem , some on the reason why the problem occurred in the first place, and then there are those that think about possible solutions to move straight into solving the problem.

Here’s a story, I found & wanted to share, to get you start to think about the possibilities & your approach to problems:

A farmer died leaving his 17 horses to his three sons. When his sons opened up the Will it read: * My eldest son should get 1/2 (half) of total horses; * My middle son should be given 1/3rd (one-third) of the total horses; * My youngest son should be given 1/9th (one-ninth) of the total horses.

As it’s impossible to divide 17 into half or 17 by 3 or 17 by 9, the three sons started to fight with each other. So, they decided to go to a farmer friend who they considered quite smart, to see if he could work it out for them.

The farmer friend read the Will patiently, after giving due thought, he brought one of his own horses over and added it to the 17. That increased the total to 18 horses.

Now, he divided the horses according to their fathers Will. * Half of 18 = 9. So he gave the eldest son 9 horses. * 1/3rd of 18 = 6. So he gave the middle son 6 horses. * 1/9th of 18 = 2. So he gave the youngest son 2 horses.

Now add up how many horses they have: * Eldest son 9 * Middle son 6 * Youngest son 2 TOTAL IS 17

* Now this leaves one horse over, so the farmer friend takes his horse back to his farm.

Problem Solved!

Moral:
The attitude of negotiation and problem solving is to find the 18th horse i.e. the common ground. Once a person is able to find the 18th horse the issue is resolved. It is difficult at times. However, to reach a solution, the first step is to believe that there is a solution. If we think that there is no solution, we won’t be able to reach any!

(Anonymous)

People resolve problems in different ways & may even change their approach depending on the situation & who is involved. I find that I like to collect all the information available, take a balanced approach & weigh up various outcomes & impacts on others. Depending on the problem, some solutions may be obvious, however with more complex problems, the solution may require more consideration. Sometimes I find it’s even taking a step away from the problem, hanging out with the kids & taking time out, that the answers become clear. All too often, a problem shared works for me too, talking through the problem with others can provide a different perspective & the solution becomes clear just by talking it through.

How do you find the 18th horse? How do you solve problems? What works for you?

Lachlan

2023-08-21

Having been my first time seeking a role outside of my graduate position, Ben McKenzie of Zanettis provided me with invaluable insight and advice on my chosen industry. The guidance I received helped me immensely throughout the process of finding my next role. I highly recommend anyone that is looking for a professional and useful recruitment experience to get in contact with the team. The stand out factor for Zanettis is that they put a greater emphasis on getting to know you as a candidate and team building for the companies they are assisting to ensure they match the right people to the right roles.

Cameron James

2023-01-24

I have nothing but pleasant things to write about Zanetti recruitment. From my initial interaction with Ric and Ben, it felt like I wasn't getting pushed into an offer that wasn't suitable but actually was listened to in finding a suitable role. Ben took my calls throughout the interview process and after, he continued to endeavor to find the best outcome for me. They provided me the confidence in myself to find the best outcome to further my career and continue to grow. I would recommend them to anyone for their services. Great work.

Patrick Meagher

2022-11-06

Ben Mackenzie at Zanetti Recruitment & Consulting was incredibly professional and diligent during the entire process. Finding the right work place was made easy and I am very thankful for his help and professionalism. I could not recommend them highly enough.

Adam Wade

2022-08-29

Thank you Rick, your knowledge and support were invaluable.

Hamish McKibbin

2022-08-17

Ric at ZRC is a first-class professional who I'm grateful to have met. Ric listened to the roles I was interested in and the direction I wanted to take my career. He used his intimate knowledge of the local market to connect with prospective employers (who weren't even advertising), and lined up interviews for me. I found Ric to be very responsive and considerate in all our engagements. I couldn't recommend him enough to anyone working in financial services, in Brisbane.

Julian Stephenson

2022-08-08

I've known Ric for around 6 years and have worked with Ben more recently from the candidate side, with both providing an authentic, personable service. What sets Zanetti Recruitment apart is the extent they go to to familiarise themselves intimately with their clients and candidates alike. They are honest in terms of their alignment of prospective candidates to roles, and their perspective and depth of financial planning industry knowledge is second to none. If you are looking for your next financial planning role or recruit and want the best possible fit, I would not hesitate to recommend Ric and Ben as your first port of call.

Adam Alexander

2022-05-09

My experience with Ben and the team has been nothing but professional and amazing. I strongly recommend them.

Callum van Megen

2022-01-06

My recent experience with Zanetti Recruitment was nothing but positive. After my first meeting with Ric, it was clear he is not your average recruitment agent. Ric is extremely knowledgeable of the Financial Planning industry and it was evident he has a comprehensive understanding of existing employment opportunities available, as well as upcoming opportunities that were yet to be advertised. Ric took the time to gain an in-depth understanding of the key attributes and values I was looking for within my next employer, before providing multiple opportunities which he felt aligned with my personal requirements. I would highly recommend Ric, and Zanetti Recruitment, to anyone looking for their next financial planning role, or any businesses looking to fill a position.

Travis Ramsay

2021-12-21

Ric and Ben were diligent in discovering all they could about me personally and professionally before working tirelessly to find businesses that aligned with my values and goals. Thanks so much to the Zanetti team!

Tommy Ho

2021-09-11

I have had a great experience with Zanetti recruitment. Their understanding of the industry and relationship with employers are a great advantage. Ric and Ben took the time to understand my skillset and aspirations to tailor jobs to suit my needs, and it felt like I wasn't another person to fill a seat. Always professional and easy to deal with, 100% recommend. Thanks Zanetti!

Problem or Solutions Focus?