Succeeding in the World of WorkChapter 16:
Thinking Skills on the JobPersonal Academic and Career Portfolio HelpReal-World Problem Solving
Ensure an effective interview by preparing well ahead of time. Do research about the company to familiarize yourself with its mission statement, products and services, and workplace environment. Then write 5 to 10 questions about typical problems and problem-solving strategies in the workplace. When scheduling the interview, ask for a short amount of time from the interviewee—20 minutes or less. Keep the interview to the promised length of time. Ask the interviewer for suggestions on resources for learning more, such as books, articles, and Web sites on problem-solving and conflict resolution skills, or referrals to other professionals who may be willing to share their expertise. After the interview, organize your notes in a question-and-answer format, editing for clarity.
As you gain experience with problem solving at school, home, and in the workplace, note any particularly effective—or ineffective—problem-solving strategies that you have tried or seen others try. Use this experience to develop your own personalized strategies.  | 
