More than job experience or a Bachelors/Masters Degree, did you know that the most important skill to have - in any situation - is critical thinking? People who are able to solve problems on a whim - to think on their toes - are people who climb higher through the ranks in their company.
You can be loyal to a company for a long time; and do everything within your power to impress your boss. But if you lack the skill to think critically and quickly in a tough situation, then - hate to burst your bubble - forget about climbing up the ranks in that company. Rider University published an article, which talked about the importance of critical thinking in business:
"If communication refers to the meaningful exchange of information in an organization, critical thinking is the engine that provides the meaning. The ability to identify a problem and develop a cogent explanation and solution is important for business communication." - Rider University Publication
Now more than ever, jobs are looking for people with strong critical thinking skills. In the digital age we live in, the ability to think of a solution to a problem brings in more cash flow than back-breaking labor ever could. Coding is such an example of the increased use of critical thinking. Website Developers, Computer Programmers, and people in the IT industry have to constantly think of solutions to technological issues. Since technology can be fickle and finicky at times, more IT companies hire programmers based on their level of critical thinking skill. If they are able to come up with a solution - and fast - they are the ones who will be hired for the job.
What if I want to be an entrepreneur or freelancer? Do I still need to develop my critical thinking skills? The answer to these two questions is YES! Customers and clients have a wide variety of questions. They want to know what you do. They want to know what you are selling. But most importantly of all, they want to know how your business will help them. Here is the kicker, though: they want to know all of these things without hesitation on your end. Even if you don't have all the answers right away, to be able to think on your toes and provide a solution to their problems brings about more business than any form of advertising could.
Critical thinking adds value to what you already know is valuable in your business. Others may not understand or see the value of your product or service right away. Thus, solving problems on a consistent basis is vital to your success. Be the solution in whatever industry you find yourself in; not the problem.
Like training at the gym builds our muscle and endurance, so too must we build our critical thinking muscle. We do this simply by asking the right questions:
- How can my product or service benefit my community?
- How can others see value in what I bring to the table?
- What current problems can my product/service solve?
- Is there a similar product/service out there? If so, is it solving more problems on a consistent basis?
- Is my product/service a long term solution?
These questions can be the start of building and training our critical thinking muscle. If you aren't sure about the answer now, that's okay. As long as you are aiming to find a solution - instead of sitting around and waiting for one to fall on your lap - then you are one step closer to answering these questions and many more!
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