Workplace Win Slides Workplace Win
Mastering Problem Solving & Communication for Professional Success
The S.O.L.V.E. Strategy
S
State the problem clearly.
O
Outline your options (Brainstorm).
L
Look at pros and cons (Evaluate).
V
Verify the best solution.
E
Explain the plan to others.
Step 1: State
Spotting the Problem
"What is actually happening versus what should be happening?"
Be specific (no guessing!)
Stick to the facts.
Avoid blaming people.
Example
"Kevin is annoying and lazy."
"The inventory list is missing, and I can't finish my count."
Steps 2 & 3: Outline & Look
Think & Choose
Quantity First
Think of at least 3 solutions, even "crazy" ones.
Pros & Cons
Which solution is fastest? Cheapest? Most professional?
The Winner
Pick the one that solves the core problem best.
Step 4: Explain
The "Pro" Script
Use the 3-Part Bridge:
1
The Problem:
"I noticed that [State the issue facts]..."
2
The Suggestion:
"I was thinking we could [Suggest solution]..."
3
The Ask:
"What do you think about that?"
Bonus Skills
Conflict Cool-Down
Avoid "You" Attacks
"You always mess up the schedule."
Use "I" Statements
"I feel frustrated when the schedule changes without notice."
Pro Tips:
Listen more than you speak.
Ask for a 5-minute breather if angry.
Focus on the fix, not the fault.
Workplace Dilemma Cards Workplace Dilemma Cards
Functional Problem-Solving Role-Play
Speech Therapy Tool
Lesson: Professional Problem Solvers
How to Play
Choose a card and read the scenario. Use the S.O.L.V.E. strategy to identify the problem, brainstorm solutions, and practice communicating your plan using a professional script.
Scenario 01
The Missing Key
You arrive at the stockroom to start your shift, but the door is locked and the supervisor who has the key hasn't arrived yet. Customers are already asking for items from the back.
Focus: Logistical Problem & Customer Service
Scenario 02
The Credit Stealer
You came up with a new way to organize the files. During a meeting, your coworker explains your idea to the boss and acts like they thought of it themselves. The boss says, "Great job, Sarah!"
Focus: Interpersonal Conflict
Scenario 03
The Frozen Screen
You are checking out a customer at the register. Suddenly, the computer screen freezes and won't respond to your mouse or keyboard. The line is getting longer and people look annoyed.
Focus: High-Pressure Logistics
Scenario 04
The Unclear Task
Your supervisor gives you a stack of papers and says, "Update these records by 3 PM," and walks away quickly. You realize you don't know where the digital file is or which software to use.
Focus: Communication & Clarification
Scenario 05
The Late Start
There was a major accident on the highway, and your bus is stuck in traffic. You were supposed to start your shift 10 minutes ago, and you still have at least 20 minutes of travel left.
Focus: Professionalism & Responsibility
Scenario 06
The Noisy Neighbor
You work in a cubicle. The coworker next to you is constantly watching videos on their phone without headphones. It’s making it very hard for you to focus on your data entry task.
Focus: Advocacy & Conflict Resolution
Print and cut along the solid lines. Use with the S.O.L.V.E. Planner worksheet.
SOLVE Planner Worksheet SOLVE Planner
Workplace Problem-Solving Graphic Organizer
Name:
Date:
Scenario Name/Number:
S
State the Problem
What are the facts? What is happening vs. what should happen? (No blaming!)
O + L
Outline & Look at Solutions
Brainstorm 3 options and consider the pros and cons of each.
Option 1
Pros & Cons
Option 2
Pros & Cons
Option 3
Pros & Cons
V
Verify the Best Choice
Which option is the most professional and effective? Why?
E
Explain the Plan (Script)
1. The Problem: "I noticed..."
2. The Suggestion: "I was thinking we could..."
3. The Ask: "What do you think?"
Professional Problem Solvers Teacher Guide Teacher Facilitation Guide
Lesson: Professional Problem Solvers
Lesson Flow
1. Introduce: Use the Workplace Win Slides to teach the S.O.L.V.E. acronym.2. Model: Use Scenario 01 to fill out a SOLVE Planner as a group.3. Practice: Pairs or small groups choose a card and complete their own planner.4. Perform: Role-play the final "Explain" script for the class.
Therapy Focus
Perspective Taking: Ask, "How might your coworker feel if you said it that way?"Executive Function: Focus on the "Look" step—identifying consequences before acting.Self-Advocacy: Use Scenarios 04 and 06 to practice asking for what is needed professionally.
Suggested Scenario Responses
01: The Missing Key
Best Choice: Inform the nearest floor manager and offer to help customers in the meantime.
Script: "I noticed the stockroom is locked and I can't start my count. I was thinking I could help customers on the floor until the supervisor arrives. Does that work for you?"
02: The Credit Stealer
Best Choice: Speak to the coworker privately first to address the "oversight."
Script: "I noticed you shared my organization idea in the meeting. I was thinking we could clarify that we worked on it together if it comes up again. How do you feel about that?"
03: The Frozen Screen
Best Choice: Stay calm, acknowledge the customer's wait, and call for immediate tech support/manager.
Script: (To Customer) "I'm so sorry for the wait, my screen has frozen. (To Manager) I noticed the register is unresponsive. I was thinking we could move this customer to lane 2 while I reboot. What do you think?"
04: The Unclear Task
Best Choice: Ask for clarification immediately rather than guessing or waiting.
Script: "I noticed the deadline for these records is 3 PM, but I'm not sure which software to use. I was thinking you could show me the file location so I can get started. Do you have a minute?"
05: The Late Start
Best Choice: Call the workplace immediately to provide an ETA.
Script: "I noticed there's a major accident and my bus is stuck. I was thinking I should let you know I'll be about 30 minutes late. Is there anything I need to do when I arrive?"
