Mastering Problem-Solving Skills: A Story from Mark Goode, CEO of Inspired Recruitment

Mastering Problem-Solving Skills: A Story from Mark Goode, CEO of Inspired Recruitment

When I first started out in business, I wasn’t the problem-solving master I am today. In fact, there were times when I’d look at an issue and feel like I was staring at a brick wall with no way over or around it. But over time, I developed a methodical approach to solving problems—one that has transformed the way I tackle challenges. Today, I want to share that approach with you, through a story that highlights the 10 steps to mastering problem-solving.

A Recruitment Problem

Not too long ago, a client approached Inspired Recruitment with a tricky situation. They needed to fill several high-level roles quickly but were struggling to attract the right candidates. Their hiring process was stalled, their team was under pressure, and morale was sinking fast.

I could feel the weight of their frustration. But instead of jumping straight to solutions, I followed the process I’ve honed over the years.

Step 1: Define the Problem

Before we jumped in, I needed to know exactly what was going on. Why weren’t the roles being filled? Was it the job descriptions? The salaries? Or the lack of candidates with niche skills? I spent time gathering data, asking detailed questions, and getting clarity from the client about their specific challenges.

Lesson: Without defining the problem, you're just guessing at solutions.

Step 2: Break It Down

The situation seemed overwhelming—until I broke it into smaller parts. The issue wasn’t just about candidate shortages; it involved job specs, market positioning, and the client’s recruitment processes. By dissecting the problem, we could address each piece individually.

Lesson: When you simplify a complex problem, the solutions become more manageable.

Step 3: Think Creatively

Once we had clarity, it was time to get creative. I asked myself, “What’s worked in the past for similar clients?” and explored analogies outside recruitment. We decided to position these vacancies in a fresh way—highlighting unique perks and using storytelling to showcase the roles.

Lesson: Creativity is about seeing the problem from a new perspective.

Step 4: Practice Active Listening

I gathered my team for their input. Some of our consultants had invaluable ideas about untapped candidate pools and fresh marketing strategies. Listening to their experiences brought new insights we hadn’t considered.

Lesson: People around you often hold the key to solutions—you just have to listen.

Step 5: Take Breaks

After brainstorming, I gave myself and the team some breathing room. When you’re deep in problem-solving mode, it’s easy to get stuck. A quick walk and a cup of coffee later, I came back with a clearer head and refined ideas.

Lesson: Rest helps your brain make connections you wouldn’t see otherwise.

Step 6: Sleep on It

That night, I deliberately didn’t stress over the problem. Instead, I let my subconscious do the work while I slept. By the morning, I had fresh insights, including a new way to market the vacancies that hadn’t crossed my mind the day before.

Lesson: Sleep isn’t a luxury; it’s a problem-solving tool.

Step 7: Engage in Physical Activities

The next day, I went to the gym before heading into work. While running on the treadmill, an idea struck me: we could approach candidates directly in a specific sector using personalised outreach. It’s amazing how movement sparks the brain!

Lesson: Fast-paced physical activities are great for quick thinking and fresh ideas.

Step 8: Practice Regularly

Over the years, I’ve honed these steps with every challenge I’ve faced. Problem-solving isn’t just a skill—it’s a muscle. The more you work it, the sharper it gets. This situation wasn’t the first time I’d applied these principles, and it won’t be the last.

Lesson: Consistency builds confidence.

Step 9: Stay Positive

I kept reminding myself—and my team—that every problem is solvable. When things got tough, I didn’t let frustration take over. Instead, I focused on the opportunity to improve and learn.

Lesson: A positive mindset is the foundation of effective problem-solving.

The Outcome

Within weeks, the client’s vacancies were filled, morale was restored, and their team was back on track. The success wasn’t just down to a great recruitment strategy; it was the result of structured problem-solving.

Final Thoughts

Mastering problem-solving isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s a way of thinking, an attitude. Whether you’re facing challenges in recruitment, business, or life, following these 10 steps will give you the clarity and confidence to overcome anything.

If I can do it, so can you. Just remember: define, break it down, think creatively, listen, rest, move, and, most importantly, stay positive. The next time you face a challenge, you’ll be ready to tackle it head-on—and come out stronger.

What’s your biggest problem today? Start solving it one step at a time.

 Mark Goode

CEO Inspired Recruitment

Mark Goode is the CEO of The Inspired Recruitment Group which originated with the inception of Inspired Selections a recruitment agency primarily focused on recruitment in the optical industry before branching out into audiology and pharmaceutical recruitment. New optical opportunities are featured daily here or if you're a business, looking for help with your recruitment needs, get in touch here