ABSTRACT
Chapter 10 illustrated how the Job Relations (JR) four-step method guides supervisors down a systematic path of problem solving to arrive at actions that solve problems and meet objectives. But what if you could prevent these problems from happening in the first place? Or address problems early, while they are still small? Many supervisors say that most of their big problems result from smaller problems that were neglected or poorly handled. This happens for a reason. In most cases, problems that are big and complicated right from the start tend to get immediate attention. Someone says, “This is a tough one. I’d better deal with it carefully.” On the other hand, small problems often get ignored or mishandled. Because such problems seem insignificant, there is a tendency to jump to conclusions and make poor decisions. This occurs because the person dealing with the problem perceives it as minor and does not take the time to get the facts or think them through carefully. Before long, these minor problems grow into big headaches. What started as a small fire that could have been put out with a cup of water becomes a blaze that needs the fire department.
