Chapter 8 Reading Reflection

I've realized in the few years that I've studied business that the real world and business world are often pretty similar. The two worlds aren't distinct at all but more like a Venn diagram, where many facets overlap and others do not. Two of those overlapping factors are creating proposals and solving problems, which are key not only in the business world but in everyday life as well.

A few years ago, I met a guy named Nick. We became fast friends and spent tons of time together. Last semester, we roomed together at BYU and recently, I was the best man at his wedding. In the three years that I've known him, I have always marveled at his power of persuasion. It's unlike anything I've ever seen. If he wants people to do something, they usually do it. It's not really manipulative (most of the time), but he has a natural gift for getting others to see what's in it for them. That, in essence, is the purpose of a proposal. 

Proposals in business are used to obtain permission and (if necessary) funds to continue with a project. They can be written or oral presentations and vary greatly in levels of formality. When someone asks you for a proposal, use a direct approach, by stating the purpose of the proposal and then discussing why it is necessary. However, when the proposal is unsolicited, it is more appropriate to use an indirect approach; discuss the problem first and then state your proposal. Whatever the situation, I feel that the most important part of a successful proposal is to empathize with the audience and then to appeal to their heads and hearts, always remembering the essential question "What's in it for them?"

We encounter problems every day, and it's not different in business. In fact, each job exists to solve specific problems. When trying to solve problems, remember three general steps: diagnose the problem, develop a solution, and implement the solution. 

First, we must diagnose the problem, which is the difference between what is and what should be. After becoming aware of a problem, we normally gather and analyze relevant data. This allows us to identify trends and opportunities for improvement. However, be aware of a typical problem in evaluating problems (ironic, I know). Problems are often like an iceberg, where we see only what is above the surface at first. This part of the iceberg, however, is often a symptom of a bigger problem hidden beneath the surface. To truly solve problems instead of just masking them for a while, we have to get to the root of the problem. Only by getting to the root of the problem can we develop solutions that will work permanently.

Second, we develop a solution. This normally involves brainstorming (whether individually or in a group) and creative thinking. When brainstorming, don't assume that there is only one solution to the problem. Rather, write down anything that comes to your head, and narrow the list from there, choosing what is best as objectively as possible. 

Third, we implement the solution. Any solution will not be effective unless it is implemented and then measured periodically. As the plan is being put into action, keep an open mind and be willing to make adjustments. Also, try to anticipate and plan for change- this will make the implementation process much smoother. If we follow these three steps for solving a problem, I have seen that we will be successful... until the next problem arrives, and we start the process all over.

Writing proposals and solving problems are essential to successful businesses. Writing a proposal requires attention to detail and identifying with your audience. Remember to ask yourself  "What's in it for them?" Solving problems can be done by following a three-step plan: diagnose the problem, develop a solution, and implement the solution.